True Crime and Unique Names Shape 2025 Baby Trends

In 2025, a trend has emerged where baby names inspired by true crime figures such as Ted (Bundy), Anna (Delvey), and Rose (West) are increasingly appearing in popular name lists. Experts stress that parents are typically not intentionally honoring notorious criminals, but are unconsciously influenced by the prevalence of these names in true crime documentaries and dramatizations, especially on streaming platforms. This trend is further validated by data from BabyCentre UK and the Social Security Administration, which show a broader increase in names popularized by viral media and niche TV shows. Many of the names gaining popularity are common and have diverse associations, with experts emphasizing that cultural absorption, rather than deliberate homage, drives the trend. Additionally, there is a growing preference for unique, rare, or virtue-based names, as parents seek individuality and positive symbolism. The phenomenon highlights how entertainment and media increasingly influence personal naming decisions.