Michael Keaton Plans to Use His Real Name in Future Projects
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The iconic star of 'Beetlejuice' and 'Batman' wants to return to his roots by reclaiming his birth name, Michael Douglas, in a twist that highlights the often-complex world of Hollywood stage names.

AceShowbiz - Michael Keaton is seeking to blend past and present in a unique way by altering his professional moniker to Michael Keaton Douglas. Known for unforgettable roles in movies such as "Beetlejuice" and "Batman," the actor aims to reclaim his birth name, Michael John Douglas, while preserving the identity that fans have come to know him by.

His journey into the entertainment industry in the early 1970s necessitated the change of his surname due to the Screen Actors Guild's regulations. "I was looking through - I can't remember if it was a phone book," Keaton recalled in an interview with People. "I must've gone, 'I don't know, let me think of something here.' And I went, 'Oh, that sounds reasonable,' " he added.

The requirement arose because Michael Douglas, the son of legendary actor Kirk Douglas, and Mike Douglas, a well-known TV talk show host, were already members of the guild. Therefore, Keaton had to select a stage name to differentiate himself.

While Keaton has professionally gone by Michael Keaton for decades, he has always legally been Michael John Douglas. Despite this, he mentioned, "I use my real name, Michael John Douglas, for everything except on a marquee or a gig. People get very confused. We'd be going somewhere, and there will be a driver with a sign saying Michael Douglas - and then I show up," Keaton said with a laugh.

Keaton initially planned to adopt the Michael Keaton Douglas credit while directing and starring in his 2023 film "Knox Goes Away," but the change slipped through the cracks.

This decision isn't entirely unique among Hollywood stars. For instance, Emma Stone, who has co-starred with Keaton, also considered reverting to her real name, Emily. "That would be so nice," she shared with The Hollywood Reporter. "I would like to be Emily."

As Keaton continues his illustrious career, fans can look forward to seeing both his acting and directorial credits under Michael Keaton Douglas. The move signals a full-circle moment, merging the actor's deeply personal identity with the acclaimed professional legacy he has built over decades.

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