In 2025, baby name choices are being influenced by unexpected sources — true crime documentaries and viral podcast characters subtly shaping parents’ subconscious decisions.
According to BabyCentre UK’s Top 100 Baby Names list, many of this year’s most popular names are shared with real-life criminals or infamous figures featured in Netflix’s gripping true crime shows and series.
Unlikely Names from True Crime Stories Top the Charts
Names like Anna, Arthur, Ruby, and Joseph have spiked in popularity — all tied to high-profile cases or infamous personalities in media. Parents aren’t directly honouring criminals, but absorbing names through pop culture, as naming expert SJ Strum explains. These names subtly enter our mental vocabulary through thrilling podcasts, viral videos, and binge-worthy Netflix shows.
From “Fake Heiress” to “Tiger King”: The Name List Behind the Buzz
Names rising from the world of crime include:
- Anna – From “Fake Heiress” Anna Delvey
- Arthur – Linked to Zodiac Killer suspect Arthur Lee Allen
- Freddie & Rose – Inspired by infamous serial killers Fred and Rose West
- Joseph – Popularised by “Joe Exotic” of Tiger King fame
- Luca – From Don’t F**k with Cats
- Ruby – Tied to ‘Devil in the Family’ figure Ruby Franke
- Teddy – A soft echo of serial killer Ted Bundy
- Ronnie & Reggie – Infamous Kray twins
- Bella – Wellness scammer Belle Gibson
- Erin – Known from the Australian “Mushroom Cook” case
Succession and The White Lotus Spark “Aristocratic Chic” Name Trend
TV dramas like Succession and The White Lotus are shaping a new wave of luxurious, upper-class baby name choices. Parents are gravitating towards names with aristocratic elegance — names like Elodie, Zara, Nathaniel, and Sebastian are making a strong comeback. These names suggest class, ambition, and social power, echoing the tone of prestige dramas.
Names Channeling Nobility and Sophistication Surge
Here are some of the trending “Succession Chic” baby names of 2025:
For Girls:
Amelia, Ada, Aria, Elodie, Freya, Gianna, Penelope, Zara
For Boys:
Albie, Eli, Ibrahim, Nathaniel, Otis, Reuben, Rory, Sebastian, Theodore
These names evoke ambition, refinement, and timeless charm — qualities increasingly admired by millennial and Gen Z parents alike.
Celestial and Mythical Names Bring the Cosmos to Earth
Cosmic-themed names are reaching for the stars in 2025. With spirituality, astrology, and space themes booming online, baby names like Luna, Nova, and Aurora are soaring. These names speak to a desire for magic, hope, and celestial wonder in a complex world.
Celestial Girl Names Lighting Up 2025
Trending cosmic names include:
- Aurora – Goddess of the dawn
- Luna – The Moon
- Nova – New star
- Eliana – Tied to sun god Helios
- Nur – Meaning light
- Thea – Goddess of light
- Layla – Night beauty
- Maryam – Star of the sea
- Ayla – Moonlight
- Arabella – Star-like beauty
These names are poetic, uplifting, and steeped in mythological and natural symbolism.
Letter Trends: X, Y, Z Names Make a Bold Comeback
The alphabet’s final letters are now first picks for trendsetting parents. Names beginning with Z, Y, and X feel modern, edgy, and powerful — perfect for a bold new generation.
Standout Names with X, Y, Z Flair
Girls:
Anaya, Ayra, Emily, Hazel, Maya, Robyn, Ruby, Zoe
Boys:
Dylan, Enzo, Ezra, Max, Syed, Yahya, Zane, Zion
These names balance tradition with a fresh twist, combining modern vibes with meaningful origins.
Royal Names and Nostalgic Picks Still Reign in 2025
The legacy of Queen Elizabeth and support for Princess Kate have brought back royal names like Eliza, Charlotte, George, and Mia. Meanwhile, Evie, introduced in Peppa Pig, is now climbing the charts thanks to its short, sweet vintage appeal.
Pop Culture Is the New Royal Court of Naming
“Names act like time capsules,” said Faye Mingo, BabyCentre’s Chief Marketing Officer. “True crime, royalty, pop icons — they all reflect the world our children are born into.” Whether parents are inspired by prestige TV, celestial legends, or unexpected true crime fame, 2025’s baby names tell the story of our cultural moment — one captivating name at a time.
