Actress Kat Dennings, best known for her roles in 2 Broke Girls and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, recently opened up about her real name and why she chose to change it for her acting career. Born Katherine Victoria Litwack, Dennings decided at a young age that her birth name wouldn’t work in Hollywood.
Why Did She Change Her Name?
In a recent interview on the Not Gonna Lie with Kylie Kelce podcast, Dennings explained that she felt “Katherine Litwack” wouldn’t fit well on a movie poster. Wanting something unique yet memorable, she took inspiration from Janine Denni, the wife of her mother’s friend, and combined it with “Kat” after the character from the 1995 movie Casper played by Christina Ricci.
“I needed a name that felt like it belonged in Hollywood. My real name is beautiful, but it didn’t feel like it would pop on a poster.” – Kat Dennings
Dennings also shared that early in her career, she faced criticism about her appearance but remained committed to her craft. Despite Hollywood’s standards, she refused to change her looks to fit a specific mold, ultimately carving out a successful career in both comedy and drama.
What Is She Working on Now?
Currently, Dennings stars alongside Tim Allen in ABC’s sitcom Shifting Gears, a series that explores the evolving relationship between a widowed father and his estranged daughter. The show has received positive reviews for its mix of humor and heartfelt storytelling.
From changing her name to navigating Hollywood’s tough standards, Kat Dennings has stayed true to herself, building a career based on talent and authenticity. Whether in sitcoms, blockbuster movies, or streaming series, she continues to captivate audiences with her signature wit and charm.