Fans are shocked to learn that Reese Witherspoon's first name isn't Reese. Vanity FairThe 48-year-old actress said, Nicole KidmanThe pair have been known to be close ever since they starred together on the hit series “Big Little Lies,” and their mutual friend and co-star Witherspoon said, ” Laura Dernwith her last name.
Baffled by the custom, Kidman commented during the interview, “I don't like being called Darn. It's weird.” Witherspoon, the Oscar-winning actress known for her role in Legally Blonde, explained the reason behind the custom and revealed a surprising fact about her name. “Let me tell you why,” she began. “My name is Laura and her name is Laura, and it's confusing to me. My real name is Laura Jean.”
This revelation seemed to jog Kidman's memory, as she replied, “That's right! You call her Dern.” The explanation reveals why Witherspoon chooses to go by her mother's maiden name, Reese, professionally.
Born Laura Jean Reese Witherspoon, she chose to use the name Reese when she began her acting career in the 1990s, a decision that not only helped her stand out in Hollywood, but also avoided the confusion of sharing the same name as co-star Laura Dern.
Fans of the actress, who has garnered a legion of admirers throughout her decades-long career, were quick to express their surprise on social media, with many not knowing this detail despite Witherspoon's long tenure in public.
“Wait, Reese Witherspoon's real name is Lola? Surprise,” one fan tweeted, echoing the sentiments of the public, while another commented, “I've been a fan for years and had no idea her name wasn't Reese!”
The revelation adds another fascinating dimension to Witherspoon's already affluent public persona: While she's known for her honest and down-to-earth personality, this personal side highlights the strategic decisions celebrities make when choosing the names they announce to the world.
