Why Keanu Reeves Almost Changed His Name Early in His Career

Keanu Reeves is undoubtedly one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, but he nearly opted for a different name.

While discussing his early career on the “New Heights” podcast on Wednesday, October 15, the 61-year-old actor recounted, “I was acting professionally by the age of 16 or 17. I was in Toronto, Canada, and then I found a manager in Los Angeles. At 20, I drove here, and he suggested, ‘We want to change your name.’ That was my welcome to Hollywood moment.”

When asked if there was a specific name they had in mind, Reeves said, “No.”

He reminisced about being on the beach and pondering, “What if I change my name?”

As he considered possible alternatives, Reeves thought about using his middle name, Charles, or perhaps drawing inspiration from the street where he grew up.

<p“He was once credited as KC Reeves,” he shared, recalling his experience, “In auditions, they would call out ‘KC Reeves,’ but I simply wouldn’t respond. After six months, I realized I couldn't continue with that.”

Reeves gained widespread recognition in 1989 with his iconic role in Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure and has appeared in numerous films like Speed and the John Wick franchise. Recently, he has also made headlines regarding his relationship with Alexandra Grant, with speculations about their marriage.

<p“Actually, that’s not the first time,” Reeves commented on the marriage rumors during an interview with E! News at the New York City premiere of his new film, Good Fortune, on Monday, October 13. “We’ve been together for quite a while.”

“If there were wedding bells, that’s lovely,” Reeves continued. “So many people sent kind messages, but Alexandra deftly responded: ‘Thank you; however, here’s the truth.’”

In September, Grant dismissed claims that they had tied the knot shortly after Reeves’ representative also denied the rumors. (“It is not true,” his rep told E! News.)

“This is a genuine photo. It’s not an engagement picture or an AI wedding announcement… just a kiss! (Though we might have slightly goofy expressions in the photo!) We were at Roden Crater, having just finished interviewing James Turrell for Visionaries,” Grant posted on Instagram, sharing a picture of them kissing.

She further added, “I’m sharing this to thank everyone for their wedding congratulations, but we did not get married. It’s important to be cautious, as good news is often needed, yet it can sometimes turn out to be fake news! Here’s a glimpse of our real happiness!”