Choosing a name for a newborn is a process that many parents find challenging, as it carries lasting significance. A recent report from BabyCenter indicates that the names selected for babies in 2026 may be significantly influenced by pop culture trends from 2025. This includes names inspired by popular television shows, music, sports figures, and even significant cultural events.
Television Shows and Their Impact
The influence of television on baby naming trends is growing. According to BabyCenter, names featured in successful series are witnessing rising popularity. For instance, the character Helena from the Apple TV series Severance has climbed to position 313 among girl names in the United States. Other names gaining traction include Samira, Heather, and Cassie from the HBO Max series The Pitt. Notably, Cassie has not appeared in the top 1,000 baby names for girls in the U.S. since 2009, as per Social Security data.
Names such as Belinda and Chelsea, from the series White Lotus, are also expected to trend upward, while boys’ names like Valentin and Fabian are gaining attention, attributed to the popularity of these shows. Additionally, Isabel and Susannah are seeing increased interest thanks to the series The Summer I Turned Pretty, with Belinda being notably absent from the 1,000 most popular names since 2013.
Musical Influences on Naming Choices
The music industry is another major contributor to naming trends. BabyCenter reports that names of prominent boy band members are on the rise. Names like Howie and Nick, associated with the Backstreet Boys, as well as Lance and Joey from NSYNC, are gaining popularity. K-pop figures, such as Jin from BTS and Jun from Seventeen, are also likely to influence the names chosen by new parents.
Furthermore, names connected to Beyoncé and her recent album, Cowboy Carter, are trending. Rose and Jane, derived from song titles and lyrics, are among those experiencing a spike in popularity, alongside names like Miley and Willie, inspired by featured artists.
Sports Stars and Literary Names
The impact of sports figures on baby naming is also notable. Following the Oklahoma City Thunder’s victory in the NBA Finals, names such as Jaylin, Dillon, Jalen, and Isaiah have become more popular. Jalen, in particular, may also see a boost in popularity due to NFL star Jalen Hurts leading the Philadelphia Eagles to a Super Bowl appearance in February.
In the realm of literature, BabyCenter identifies a trend towards names inspired by notable authors and characters. Names like Ernest, Ishmael, Sylvia, and Octavia are gaining traction, along with characters such as Sawyer, Finn, and Daisy. The rising popularity of the cottagecore aesthetic is expected to enhance names like Sienna, Eloise, and Flora.
Additionally, following the death of Pope Francis in April 2025, variations of his name—including Francis, Francesco, and Francine—are being adopted by new parents.
As of November 2025, BabyCenter reported that the most popular names for newborns have remained consistent compared to previous years. For boys, the top five names include Noah, Liam, Oliver, Elijah, and Mateo, while the girls’ list is led by Olivia, Amelia, Sophia, Emma, and Isabella.
In summary, the cultural landscape of 2025 is set to have a profound influence on baby names in 2026, reflecting the evolving tastes and interests of new parents.
