Sterling K. Brown's Decision to Embrace His Heritage

In a recent episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show, Sterling K. Brown, the talented 49-year-old actor known for his role in the Hulu series Paradise, opened up about a deeply personal decision: why he stopped going by his middle name, Kelby, at the age of 16.

A Personal Anecdote

The conversation sparked a wave of emotion, especially as Kelly Clarkson shared an amusing anecdote about her son introducing himself with his middle name at a high-profile event.

Remington's Introduction

During the show, Clarkson recounted the moment her son, Remington Alexander Blackstock, chose to introduce himself as "Alexander" at the 2025 Grammy Awards, prompting laughter and surprise.

Embracing Identity

She then turned the discussion to Brown, asking him why he made the switch from Kelby to Sterling. Brown revealed that he had been using his middle name, Kelby, until he felt the urge to embrace his heritage and connect with his family's history.

Honoring Family

"My dad is Sterling Brown Jr., and my granddad is Sterling Brown Sr.; I am Sterling Kelby Brown," he explained. He then shared the emotional weight of his decision.

Reclaiming a Name

"When my father passed away when I was 10 years old, I didn’t hear his name for years. By the time I became a teenager, I wanted to reclaim that name and bring it back into my life. I wanted my own identity, yet also a connection to my family."

Viewers' Reactions

Clarkson was visibly moved by Brown's story, tearing up as he spoke. This heartfelt moment resonated not just with her but with viewers, who took to social media to express their own emotional reactions.

Universal Themes

The discussion underscored a universal theme: the importance of names in shaping our identities and connecting us to our loved ones.

The Power of Names

Celebrities often adopt their middle names for various reasons, sometimes to create a distinct persona in a crowded industry. However, Brown’s choice was motivated by a desire to honor his father and embrace his heritage, proving that names can have profound meanings beyond just labels.

A Touching Reminder

This touching moment is a reminder of the power of storytelling in connecting with others’ experiences—while also highlighting the deep emotional bonds that shape our lives.