The Secret Life Behind a Surname Change

Taking a spouse’s surname after marriage can have various reasons, often seen as a gesture of unity or modernity. However, for some, it might hide deeper motivations. In one case, a man adopted his wife’s surname not out of progressive values but to escape a past criminal life.

Changing one’s name can provide a fresh start, especially for those wanting to distance themselves from previous misdeeds. According to the U.S. Social Security Administration, name changes are common after marriage, with the majority of name changes being for traditional or personal reasons, though occasionally, they serve more secretive purposes.