Why Does Liza Minnelli Keep the Minnelli Name?
Often, the reason behind why celebrities and family members keep certain names can be quite interesting and intertwined with their life stories. In the case of Liza Minnelli, a close look at her background reveals some fascinating reasons why she retained the Minnelli family name despite her mother's maiden name being Garland.
A Bit of a History
First, some context: Liza Minnelli's parents were Judy Garland and Vincente Minnelli. Judy Garland's real name was Frances Ethel Gumm, born on June 10, 1922, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. She was ‘discovered’ through her involvement with her siblings in the variety acts 'The Gumm Sisters.' Later, she and her siblings began performing as the 'Glum Sisters' due to the negative perception of their performances.
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Liza Minnelli's Name Background
Latterly, Judy Garland took on the stage name 'Judy Garland,' while her other children retained only their middle names, with her first son Kevin Gumm being an example of this. Interestingly, Vincente Minnelli's father, also named Vincente Minnelli, was a renowned Hollywood director, further establishing the necessity for clarity in naming so as to avoid confusion with the father.
One important point to note is that children typically take the father's last name. Hence, Liza Minnelli, born following a union between Judy and Vincente, carries the Minnelli surname—reflecting the common practice in naming conventions.
Common Practice in Naming Conventions
The rationale behind this is largely rooted in tradition. When a mother marries, her children usually inherit the father's surname, ensuring that children can be easily identified within a family line. In Liza Minnelli's case, she retains the Minnelli name, mirroring this tradition. A good point of comparison here is the name of the character in 'The Nutty Professor,' where 'Joey Tomatoes' is named after his father, not his mother, due to the same naming convention.
Public Perception and Family Legacy
This choice also ties into the broader narratives around family legacies in the entertainment world. Children of famous actors or directors often find themselves at the intersection of public scrutiny, with their names and backgrounds scrutinized for hints at their future careers. Keeping a family name can provide a sense of continuity and connection to the family's legacy while also reflecting the age-old tradition in naming conventions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Liza Minnelli's retention of the Minnelli name is a reflection of her family and naming conventions. Her father, the celebrated director Vincente Minnelli, plays a crucial role in this decision, as do the typical naming practices in households. This choice not only keeps with tradition but also links her to the rich tapestry of her family's legacy in Hollywood.