Choosing a baby name may be a daunting task, but it’s not for lack of inspiration. From books and movies to TV shows, there are plenty of likable characters sporting some of the most beautiful, timeless, and unforgettable names around (Ramona, Oona, or Ellis from Sterling Point, anyone?)
The connections we forge with fictional characters have meaning. And good stories, whether they come through a page or a screen, have the power to connect, soothe, and sustain us. And, in the end, the fictional faces we meet along the way can feel less like make-believe people and more like friends. So is it all that surprising that we would turn to the TV for baby name inspiration?
If you’re building a baby name list, take a cue from some of the television characters—both new and old—we’ve been loving lately. From Off Campus and Sterling Point to The Summer I Turned Pretty and My Life with the Walter Boys, here are the best baby girl and baby boy names inspired by TV shows.
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Baby Names Inspired by Sterling Point
This is the show everyone on the Everymom team cannot stop talking about! We are seriously obsessed with how it tackles coming-of-age and sisterhood, and can’t think of a better place to find some baby name inspiration. Keep reading for boy and girl baby name ideas, from Ellis to Goldie.
Annie
Topping off the list we have Annie, an adorable, classic girl’s name that belongs to Sterling Point’s leading lady, Annie Jacobson. While only being 18 years old, Annie displays a level of confidence and fearlessness that is admirable for all ages—after all, she leaves her whole life behind in New York City to find her family and learn about her mother.
Connor
While Annie is the starring lady of Sterling Point, her twin brother Connor has plenty of moments where he steals the show. Much of the time, he acts as comedic relief with his constant antics and hefty servings of sarcasm, but—once you peel away the exterior—you’ll see a young man just as curious about his family as his twin sister.
Denise
Known for her endless supply of money and larger-than-life personality, Denise Ballantine is mother to Rory and owner of a multimillion-dollar home in Muskoka. Her motivations throughout the series aren’t always clear, but she’s one of the most headstrong and memorable characters in the show. If you’re looking for a more vintage girl’s name, this could be your perfect pick.
Ella
We just had to include Ella on this list. Not only because it’s one of those names that can make any little girl feel like a princess, but because it’s the real-life name of the actress who plays Annie—Ella Rubin. I don’t know about you, but I’m going to be keeping an eye out for her in future shows and movies.
Ellis
And who is Annie’s love interest, you may be wondering? That coveted title belongs to none other than Ellis Anderson, a Muskoka native who works at his family’s marina and gets pulled into all of the main group’s summer shenanigans. Not only is Ellis a sweet and gentle young man who has a soft spot for Annie, but his name actually means “benevolent” and “kind.” What could be more perfect?
Goldie
Sometimes characters haunt the narrative, even though we never meet them. This couldn’t be more true for Goldie, the late adoptive mother of Annie and Connor and the biological mother of Ramona. Whether it’s her hidden past or connections to Muskoka, her past choices drive the plot’s central mystery.
Gordon
Another character who haunts the narrative! Gordon, the estranged grandfather in Sterling Point, sets the plot in motion with his death, will, and final letters. Not only is he spoken highly of in the series for being a great parent to Ramona, but Gordon is such a timeless, strong name for a boy or girl.
Joe
If you’re in search of something classic and timeless for your little boy, consider Joe, another native islander and the flawed father of Ellis. While Joe makes plenty of mistakes throughout the series, we appreciate the honesty and emotion in Jeffrey Dean Morgan’s performance. Plus, Joe comes with plenty of close alternatives—Joey, Joseph, Joel.
Keen
This unique name of the actor who plays Connor in the series, Keen Ruffalo (yes, he’s Mark Ruffalo’s son), has Old English roots and means “brave,” “bold,” and—perhaps best befitting Connor’s character—”sharp.”
Mallory
While she only has a few scenes, Oona’s fleeting summer fling, Stacey Mallory, leaves quite the mark on Sterling Point’s characters, particularly Oona and Ramona as they grapple with the nature of their evolving relationship. Plus, Mallory is a total trendy girl’s name—make sure to save it to your list!
Maple
If there’s one Sterling Point character I want to be when I grow up, I’d have to choose Maple, Oona’s precocious and grounded younger sister who is never seen without a book in hand. She’s kind-hearted, insightful, and helps carry a lot of the show’s sweetest moments—the period crown scene, anyone?
Oona
One of the more unique girl names on this list, Oona is Sterling Point’s wild child, so it feels fitting that her name has ties to a fairy goddess in Irish folklore. She lives on a houseboat with her younger sister—with whom she shares a sweet bond—and possesses a carefree spirit any baby would be lucky to inherit.
Ramona
Of course, we couldn’t have Annie on this list without including her long-lost sister, Ramona. Raised on the island by her grandfather, Ramona starts hostile and closed off toward Annie, until she finally lets down her walls and opens up to her. Ramona means “wise protector,” and also has cool girl nicknames like Mona, Romy, and Mo. We should note actress Amélie Hoeferle, who plays Ramona, also has a gorgeous name to consider.
Rory
While Ellis is certainly the heartthrob of Sterling Point, he’s not the only one after Annie’s heart. Rory Ballantine can’t help but throw his hat in the ring, especially because he’s a New Yorker who has known Annie since childhood. Rory as a boy’s name is oh-so-sweet and modern, but the best part about this pick is that it works for both boys and girls!
Steven
Another father figure in Sterling Point who is far from perfect, but doing his best, nonetheless. Steven Jacobson is the adoptive father of Annie and Connor, and—while I won’t say too much else about his role in the series—really does develop and evolve beautifully over the course of the story. Plus, Steven is an adorable and classic name for a baby boy.
Sully
One of Sterling Point’s many impactful and endearing side characters, Sully is a native to the island and works at his moms’ restaurant. Throughout the show, he supports the group through all of their emotional ups and downs, and even forms a close bond with Connor, helping him to throw his Camp Rock 2-themed birthday party.
Baby Names Inspired By Off Campus
Despite releasing in May, our Off Campus obsession has not waned, and these hockey boys have plenty of fodder for baby name ideas. From Wells to Hayes, these are the Off Campus baby name ideas you’ll want to save to your list.
Allie
If you want to gift your little girl a cool girl name, there’s no better choice than Allie. The “it” girl of Off Campus, Allie Hayes is Hannah’s confident and sassy best friend. Not only is she beyond supportive of Hannah when she needs it, but Allie goes on a journey of her own throughout season one—one where she learns to put herself and her goals first.
Beau
Everyone needs a loyal best friend in their life, and for Dean Di Laurentis, that person is Beau Maxwell, star quarterback on Briar U’s football team and close friend to the entire hockey group. He’s charming, funny, and a musical theater enthusiast, per his car ride with Allie and Dean. For a little boy, this is a perfect pick.
Belmont
Ever wonder who plays the world’s favorite heartthrob, Garrett Graham? The answer is Belmont Cameli, whose other credits include Along for the Ride and Until Dawn. While Belmont is actually his middle name (Phillip is his first name), we’ll be saving it as an adorable boy name option.
Dean
If you’re a dedicated Off Campus fan, then you know all about Dean Di Laurentis, Briar U hockey star and certified playboy known for his charm and charisma. Don’t worry, though, surely there’s a girl who can come along and soften his heart …
Garrett
We could never forget everyone’s favorite fictional boyfriend and all-star Briar U hockey player, Garrett Graham. He didn’t just steal Hannah’s heart this past May when Off Campus debuted, but the hearts of fans everywhere (mine included). He really is the blueprint for book boyfriends everywhere.
Graham
Of course, this list would be incomplete without the name that’s on Garrett’s jersey—Graham. Plus, we love surnames for first names, and Graham for a boy couldn’t be cuter!
Hannah
This classic, Hebrew girl’s name belongs to none other than season one’s main girl, Hannah Wells, an uncertain musician who enlists star hockey player Garrett Graham to help get her crush, Justin Kohl, to notice her. Along the way, she’ll fall in love, face her past, and come out stronger than ever.
Hayes
For those in search of something modern and gender-neutral, consider Hayes, “it” girl Allie Hayes’ last name. It’s short, sweet, and has strong Irish roots, for those with family ties across the pond.
Hunter
We love this rugged and modern boy’s name, especially because it belongs to Briar U hockey player Hunter Davenport, who plays a key role in both the Off Campus series and the spinoff books, Briar U. I won’t say too much about what he means for the series plot, for the sake of spoilers, but if you know, you know…
John
While this may just be one of the most popular boy names in the world, its impact on the Off Campus universe can’t be understated. After all, it’s the first name of Briar U stars John Logan and John Tucker.
Jules
The younger sibling of star Briar U hockey player John Logan, Jules plays a key role in the series because they run the Briar U gossip account—the very same one that diligently tracks Hannah and Garrett’s “fake” relationship from its inception. For a little girl, this is a great pick! Especially because it can be a nickname for Juliana, Julia, and more J girl names.
Kennedy
Fans of the original Off Campus book series will instantly recognize Kennedy as the last name of the series’ author, Elle Kennedy. We have her to thank for this wonderful world of hockey players, college romance, and lots of drama. And as far as last names for first names go, Kennedy is a stellar gender-neutral option.
Logan
Even though John Logan—fellow Briar U hockey star and best friend of Garrett Graham—hasn’t had his moment in the spotlight yet, he had to make this list. Unlike his wealthier teammates, John Logan’s story is punctuated by family and financial pressures regarding his future in professional hockey, as well as a great love that will have everyone swooning. The best part? Logan works as a name for boys and girls!
Tucker
Another surname first name we love! Similar to John Logan, John Tucker is a Briar U hockey player whose story comes along a little later than Garrett and Dean’s. That being said, his warm spirit and antics in the kitchen won us all over this season. Make sure to save this as a baby boy name pick.
Wells
I don’t know about you, but I’m a sucker for nicknames in romance series, and “Wellsy” for Hannah—courtesy of her “fake” boyfriend Garrett—was absolutely iconic. So, for your little one, Wells may be the perfect short and sweet first name. It even translates to “spring” and “stream.”
Baby Names Inspired By The Summer I Turned Pretty
It may be a year since season 3 of The Summer I Turned Pretty released, but its cultural significance hasn’t lessened whatsoever—especially with the new movie on its way. Keep reading for baby name ideas inspired by our favorite Cousins Beach residents.
Cameron
Fans of The Summer I Turned Pretty will remember “Cam Cameron” as the endearing (if a bit awkward) boy with whom Belly shares her first kiss. Of course, Cameron also works as a gender-neutral baby name pick.
Conrad
What would this list be without the starring man himself, Conrad Fisher, the world’s favorite summer crush? In fact, Conrad’s prominence in pop culture actually led his name to be predicted as a baby naming trend for 2026—so if you see some Conrads on your kiddos’ class list, don’t be too surprised.
Fisher
The Fisher brothers may just make up the most famous love triangle in recent history, but we love their surname for its outdoorsy nature and sharp, crisp sound. It’s a great choice, particularly for baby boys.
Gavin
While Jeremiah may not be everyone’s favorite character, his actor, Gavin Casalegno, offers even more room for baby naming inspiration! We love how modern and strong Gavin feels, with a translation of “white hawk.”
Isabel
Of course, we had to include our leading lady’s full name: Isabel. While she may go by Belly, I’m partial to her full name, particularly for its lyrical sound and host of different nicknames—Izzy, Is, Belle, Bella.
Jeremiah
Though (spoiler) Jeremiah doesn’t win Belly’s heart (or ours, for much of the series…), his name is strong and masculine, with Biblical origins. It may just be the perfect choice for a baby raised in faith.
Jewel
This name makes the list because it’s the surname of Belly’s best friend, Taylor Madison Jewel. Fans of the show know Taylor for her spunky spirit and headstrong nature, and Jewel captures all of that radiant energy in just two syllables.
Lacie
Dedicated fans will recognize this charming girl’s name from Lacie Barone, the sorority girl whom Jeremiah cheats on Belly with while they were on a “break.” Despite its somewhat negative connotation, we can’t deny the spunk and beauty in this name—it’s just too perfect for a little girl!
Laurel
Can we get some appreciation for the moms of The Summer I Turned Pretty? Laurel Park, in particular—mother to Steven and Belly—is strong, independent, and even a published author! If you’re looking for a twist on the more common Lauren or Laura, consider Laurel.
Lola
A certified cool girl name, Lola is the first name of the actress who plays Belly Conklin. Not only is she super talented and sure to be a big player in Hollywood for the years to come, but her name is short, sweet, and a diminutive of the more formal Spanish name Dolores.
Madison
Another name pulled from our beloved Taylor Madison Jewel! We love the sweet yet strong sound of Madison, and its abundance of nicknames: Maddie, Maddy, or Mads.
Shayla
Though it’s hard to remember a time Steven wasn’t with Taylor, if you think all the way back to season one, you’ll remember his summer girlfriend, Shayla Gibson. She was the epitome of cool, always perfectly dressed and ready for anything life (or Steven) threw her way. Be sure to save this one to your list!
Skye
For a gender-neutral option, consider Skye, the name of Conrad and Jeremiah’s cousin from season two. They were pulled into the group’s drama when their mom tried to sell the Cousins beach house, and Belly set out to stop her.
Susannah
Another iconic mom! Susannah Fisher loves her boys (and Belly) with all of her heart, and helped make Cousins the second home it became to the whole group. Plus, for your little one, adorable nicknames like Suzy or Suz are always an option.
Taylor
To round out the list, we have Taylor yet again. This time, we’re highlighting her iconic and timeless first name. It’s belonged to tons of icons, including Taylor Swift, Taylor Lautner, and Elizabeth Taylor.
More Baby Girl Names Inspired By TV Shows
Got another TV show in mind? Below you’ll find our favorite baby girl name picks from a variety of beloved shows, past and present. From Ted Lasso to Stranger Things, there’s a name on this list perfect for your little girl.
Beck
While You has brought us a lot of female name inspiration like Love, Peach, and Ellie, Beck, the object of Joe’s obsession in Season 1, is our favorite. This gender-neutral name is as strong as it is sweet.
Camille
OK, OK, not everyone loves Emily in Paris, but the setting, fashion, and handsome French men at least attempted to make up for all it lacked. Consider the sophisticated name Camille, a friend of Emily’s, the cherry on top.
Daisy
We’ve loved this name since The Great Gatsby days, but are even more excited to have seen it make a comeback with the TV show adaptation of Daisy Jones and the Six.
Elle
Is anyone else obsessed with Prime Video’s new Legally Blonde prequel series, Elle? Obviously, the show is named for its spunky, headstrong protagonist who—before heading to law school—tackles a sudden move to Seattle with her family.
Elsa
Some of the bravest ladies in pop culture are named Elsa, and one of our favorites is a founding member of the Yellowstone Dutton clan who fearlessly paves the way for her family in 1883.
Harper
We’re firm believers that Aubrey Plaza can do no wrong, and we were especially captivated by her role as Harper in White Lotus Season 2.
Inej
Stealthy, agile, and basically unflappable, Inej Ghafa is a soft-spoken spy in Netflix’s Shadow and Bone. Despite it never getting picked up for a second season, she’s the ultimate “it” girl, in our books.
Kiara
Inspire a young treasure hunter who isn’t afraid to do what’s right by naming her after one of the most daring female characters on Outer Banks. Plus, the third season of Outer Banks is now streaming!
Leighton
We can’t think of a more fierce female to name your little girl after than Leighton from The Sex Lives of College Girls. If she grows to be anything like her namesake, she’ll be bold and unapologetic.
Liza
Sure, the plot of Darren Starr’s Younger is as unbelievable as Carrie Bradshaw affording that SATC apartment, but you have to admit the show is pure fun. Liza Miller, the brilliant book-lover with a big heart, may inspire a new generation of little Lizas.
Mabel
Maybe it’s her coats, or the sass that Selena Gomez brings, but this Only Murders in the Building-inspired name is a lovely nod to vintage names. Mabel means “lovable”—you can’t get cuter than that. Plus, this one is also a nod to Sterling Point, since the actor who plays little Maple is named Mabel Strachan in real life!
Marian
Looking for a nod to The Gilded Age? The show’s protagonist, Marian Brooks, serves as great inspo for a classic baby name. Besides, you can’t go wrong with a name that means “the precious one” for your precious bundle.
Maxine
Max or Maxine for a girl is the ultimate edgy baby name, and for fans of Stranger Things, it will ring more than just a few bells. Max Mayfield—portrayed by Sadie Sink—is a key player in the series, particularly in seasons 4 and 5. She’s widely loved by fans for her bravery in the face of adversity (and monsters).
Maya
Pen15‘s Maya Ishii-Peters may send us into fits of uncontrollable cringing, but we can’t help rooting for her all the same. Fiercely loyal to her BFF and lovable to the core, Maya offers a quirky twist on this darling name.
Miriam
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel brought us enviable retro fashion, wit and charm galore, and one of the sweetest old-fashioned names we’re thrilled to see resurface: Miriam. Plus, “Midge” is the cutest nickname!
Orla
This endearing girl’s name is as offbeat and adorable as its namesake character in the Irish comedy Derry Girls.
Penelope
Why not take the name of Lady Whistledown herself? Penelope is an adorably trending name that means “weaver” and gives a nod to one of our favorite—and most crucial—Bridgerton characters.
Percy
While Every Year After, adapted from Carley Fortune’s popular novels, garnered mixed reviews, the show’s protagonist Persephone “Percy” Fraser has a name worth considering. In Greek mythology, Persephone was the goddess of spring.
Saira
She’s the fierce lead guitarist of the Muslim punk band Lady Parts in the hilarious and lovable British sitcom We Are Lady Parts.
Sophie
This name has been beloved for centuries, but our appreciation for it grew when we saw Hilary Duff’s character carry the name with humor and intrigue in the new How I Met Your Mother spin-off, How I Met Your Father.
Zoey
The polished and put-together eldest daughter on Black-ish, the lead character’s namesake on Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, and the main character in the beloved 2000s teen drama Zoey 101, Zoey remains a popular pick for baby names year after year.
More Baby Boy Names Inspired By TV Shows
For the baby boys, there’s plenty of TV-inspired baby names to go around, too. From Outer Banks to The Last of Us, these strong and unique baby boy names are perfect for your little one.
Anthony
Season 2 of Bridgerton is all about the family’s firstborn son. We predict that due to the popularity of the Viscount, we’ll continue to see this classic Latin name that means “priceless one.”
Bennett
This charming and unique boy name most notably stems from our recent obsession with The Other Bennet Sister, BritBox’s new historical drama centering on Mary Bennet, the bookish and often overlooked middle child of the family.
Colin
Another Bridgerton brother to add to the list! Colin Bridgerton was the star of the show’s third season, focusing on his romance with Penelope Featherington, a lifelong friend (and gossip columnist).
Crosby
Consider this a throwback entry, calling on the network dramedy Parenthood. Crosby was the youngest Braverman sibling, a one-time screw-up turned pretty likable guy.
Daemon
While many of the names from House of the Dragon are quite out there, Daemon is a beloved name that simply never gets old. We love the creative spelling on this one, too! He may rightfully have enemies, but he has a great name, nonetheless.
Diego
This Umbrella Academy character may be bullheaded and impulsive, but he’s loyal to his family and committed to the cause.
Dutton
Strong names never go out of style, and it doesn’t get much stronger than the surname of the focal family in Yellowstone, with the saga continuing in the 2026 series Dutton Ranch. In June 2021, celebrity couple Chris and Lauren Lane named their firstborn son Dutton after the show, and we’ve been loving it ever since.
Earnest
This strong, virtue name was brought back to life by one of the main characters in Atlanta, and we, for one, are sure glad it was!
Jamie
There are plenty of worthy characters named Jamie on the small screen, but Claire’s love interest in Outlander shines above them all.
Jesper
On the hunt for a unique name? Consider Jesper, the slick sharpshooter from Shadow and Bone.
JJ
While JJ often stands in the place of a boy’s full name—whether a junior or an alliterative name—we love the modern, sharp sound of this name, especially because of JJ Maybank, a fan-favorite character from Netflix’s Outer Banks.
Joel
Played by the incredible Pedro Pascal, Joel Miller is the protagonist of the popular HBO series The Last of Us. He’s hardened from years of trauma and isolation, but when he meets young Ellie, his world shifts. With a third season on the way, we predict that this name will continue to be popular amongst boys.
Johnny
Say what you will about Johnny Rose of Schitt’s Creek fame, but beneath all that awkwardness lies the heart of a truly good man. What more could you ask of a namesake?
Lee
Lee is the infinitely likable cowboy-esque character Lin-Manuel Miranda plays in His Dark Materials.
Luke
The 2016 Marvel TV show Luke Cage may have faced the chopping block after two seasons, but its steely, good-natured character can live on through your little one.
Michael
What’s not to love about this classic name, made all the more lovable by Ted Danson’s supernatural character on The Good Place? (Plus, The Office fans know and love it, too!)
Otis
Channel this sensitive and open-minded character from Sex Education with a name that also means “wealth.”
Paxton
Paxton is a name as dreamy as his character in Never Have I Ever. Luckily, it actually works as both a boy’s or girl’s name and means “peaceful town.”
Rip
Very little explanation is needed for this one to Yellowstone fans. It’s a very particular case of “IYKYK.” But if you need further convincing, Rip actually means “strength.”
Shane
Everyone is still talking about Heated Rivalry, the simmering sports romance between hockey players Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. A popular name for boys and girls, Shane has Irish roots and means “god is gracious.”
Sam
This sweet name is as charming and affable as its Marvel namesake, Sam Wilson, otherwise known as The Falcon. Tender-hearted and loyal, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier hero lends this name nothing but good vibes.
Simon
There’s no denying the dashing Duke of Hastings, the rakish Simon Basset, nudged this vintage name back into the public eye after Bridgerton Season 1.
Ted
If we’ve learned anything over the years, it’s that Teds on TV tend to be very lovable, especially the main character of Ted Lasso. This name is a great option for your little one and can be shortened from the classic name Theodore.
Walker
Walker has been associated with strength, honor, and integrity from the Chuck Norris days of Walker, Texas Ranger. In recent years, the show has been reimagined as Walker with the same bold character.
Walter
While this name may sound more vintage, TV show fans will know it’s been thrust into the limelight once again with Netflix’s My Life With The Walter Boys (season 3 is now streaming!). Like most teen dramas, it’s full of first love, family drama, and plenty of coming-of-age moments.
Xavier
Coming from the misunderstood love interest in Wednesday, this masculine name has Arabic origins meaning “bright.”
FAQs
What are some TV-inspired baby names for boys?
Some TV-inspired baby names for boys include trending picks like Ellis (Sterling Point), Graham (Off Campus), and Conrad (The Summer I Turned Pretty). Other TV-inspired baby names for boys include Bennett (The Other Bennett Sister), Anthony (Bridgerton), and JJ (Outer Banks).
What are some TV-inspired baby names for girls?
Some TV-inspired baby names for girls include trending picks like Maple (Sterling Point), Jules (Off Campus), and Lacie (The Summer I Turned Pretty). Other TV-inspired baby names for girls include Daisy (Daisy Jones & The Six), Penelope (Bridgerton), and Maxine (Stranger Things).
What TV-inspired baby names work for boys and girls?
TV-inspired baby names that work for both boys and girls include picks like Cameron (The Summer I Turned Pretty) and Rory (Sterling Point). Other gender-neutral baby names from TV include Skye and Taylor.
What are some unique TV-inspired baby names?
Boy names like Rip (Yellowstone) and Sully (Sterling Point) are unique picks that will help your little one stand out. For girls, we love Leighton (The Sex Lives of College Girls) and Mabel (Only Murders in the Building). As for gender neutral names, TV-inspired picks include Paxton (Never Have I Ever) and Jamie (Outlander).
What are some vintage baby names inspired by TV shows?
Vintage baby names inspired by TV include Denise (Sterling Point), Miriam (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel), Walter (My Life With the Walter Boys), and Johnny (Schitt’s Creek). These names have classic qualities while also being associated with memorable TV characters.
Lizzie Goodman, Contributing Writer
Lizzie is an editor and writer specializing in pregnancy, child development, and parenting. She lives in Chicago with her husband and two young daughters in a funny old house filled with books.
Rebecca Smith, Editorial Assistant
As an Editorial Assistant, Rebecca works with The Everymom team on updating existing content, photo sourcing, pitching original articles, and more. She’s passionate about creating authentic and diverse online content and is thrilled to help women of all ages feel represented.
