Orlando Bloom reminded the world of Katy Perry’s real name. Why she changed it
There's just one Katy Perry, even if the person in question isn't truly her.
During the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards on September 11, Orlando Bloom referred to his fiancée Perry by her birth name, Katheryn Hudson, while giving her the 2024 Video Vanguard Award.
"You fell for her as Katy Perry, but I fell for her as Katheryn Hudson," the "Pirates of the Caribbean" actor said. "You see her as an international icon who spreads love, positivity, and her quirky humor in every song she crafts and every music video she makes."
Bloom, who has been in a relationship with Perry since 2019 and has a four-year-old daughter named Daisy with her, also admired her talents outside of performances.
"I recognize her as a mom and as a companion who shares that same affection and happiness within our family," he shared.
During times when we’ve needed it the most, her music and the incredible universe she has built have filled us with joy and laughter, motivating countless people across the globe. Her passion is palpable, and it’s simply captivating. I notice her presence all around our home, from her dedication to her craft to the deep affection she has for her fans.
Bloom then announced her new album titled “143” and reiterated her original name.
"Congratulations on this amazing achievement, sweetheart! I couldn't be prouder of you. 143! Everyone, please welcome your 2024 MTV Video Vanguard, Katheryn Hudson — Katy Perry!"
What’s Katy Perry’s Real Name?
Perry was born with the name Katheryn Hudson. In 2001, she put out a Christian rock album titled "Katy Hudson." It wasn't until 2008, when she released her hit album "One of the Boys," that she began using the stage name Katy Perry.
Why Did Katy Perry Choose A New Name?
"In a 2010 article about the singer, Rolling Stone noted that Perry chose to use her mother's maiden name to prevent any mix-ups with Kate Hudson."
The singer of "Woman's World," who is known for having been raised in a tightly controlled Christian environment, shared that transforming into Katy Perry was a lot simpler than staying true to her original self.
Many individuals carry fears stemming from experiences in their childhood or might be struggling with some type of PTSD they encountered throughout their lives. In an interview with The Guardian in 2017, she explained that she developed a remarkable persona named Katy Perry, which reflects who she really is and which she can embody whenever she wishes. This character was created as a means of emotional protection.
I was afraid that if you saw me, Katheryn Hudson, with a Bioré strip on my nose, you'd think, "That's not glamorous at all." I was trying to convey, "I’ve dealt with a lot of challenges in my childhood, so now I want to prove to the world that I am valuable, that I can achieve great things, and that I’m worthy just as I am.”
"I wasn’t comfortable being Katheryn Hudson. I found it really overwhelming, so I made the choice to become a different person."
Drew Weisholtz works as a reporter for TODAY Digital, specializing in pop culture, nostalgia, and current trends. He has watched every episode of “Saved by the Bell” over 50 times, dreams of mastering the crane kick from “The Karate Kid,” and enjoys performing stand-up comedy. He’s also a devoted fan of the New York Yankees and the New York Giants. A Rutgers University alumnus, he is happily married and has two children who think he’s pretty silly.
