2026 Baby Name Trends: Fantasy Fiction, Music, and Pop Culture Influences
Fantasy fiction is expected to have a significant impact on baby names in 2026, with expectant parents drawing inspiration from popular fictional characters. The name Violet, from the best-selling book Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros, is predicted to rise in popularity for girls. Similarly, the name Rhys, inspired by the character Rhysand in A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas, is expected to see an increase in popularity for boys.
Another name set to climb the ranks in 2026 is Maysilee, inspired by the character in Sunrise on the Reaping, a top-selling book of 2025. With a film adaptation scheduled for release later in the year, this Hunger Games prequel is likely to influence parents who are fans of the franchise.
Musicians are also expected to influence baby names in 2026, with Taylor Swift's single from her album The Life of a Showgirl sparking a resurgence in the name Ophelia. Additionally, Alex Warren's album You’ll Be Alright Kid (Chapter 1) and the Oasis reunion tour are predicted to inspire parents to name their children Alex and Liam, respectively.
The name Lilo, inspired by Disney's live adaptation of Lilo & Stitch, is considered a wildcard for 2026. Similarly, Conrad from the drama series The Summer I Turned Pretty and Chloe Kelly, the Lioness football star, are expected to impact baby name trends next year. Rory McIlroy, the golf champion, is also predicted to see a resurgence in popularity following his Masters win in 2025.
According to Lars B Andersen, Managing Director at mynametags.com, parents' choices in baby names are often influenced by media and pop culture. With the rise of social media and platforms like BookTok, fantasy novels have become a significant source of inspiration for baby names. Additionally, cultural moments such as major sports events and music tours are likely to shape baby name trends in 2026.
In conclusion, the upcoming year is expected to see a diverse range of baby names influenced by fantasy fiction, music, sports, and popular culture. Expectant parents are looking to fictional characters, musicians, and sports stars for inspiration, reflecting the broader cultural landscape of 2026.