The global fascination with unique and “sparkly” baby names is making headlines again—this time in Japan, where the government is taking action. Known as “kirakira” names, which translate to “sparkly” or “shiny,” these trend-driven names often involve unconventional pronunciations of traditional Japanese characters. In Japanese writing, characters can be read in multiple ways, leading to confusion and, in some cases, concern.
In response, Japan’s government is cracking down, aiming to curb the practice and bring more consistency to how names are pronounced. The debate over kirakira names raises a familiar question: do unusual baby names invite bullying or harassment?
NBC Palm Springs contributors Doug and Jamie Baker weighed in with their take on the trend. Doug recalled the original wave of unconventional names, citing Frank Zappa’s children—Moon Unit and Dweezil—and even Gwyneth Paltrow’s daughter, Apple. “I think those started the trend of naming your children unusual names or pronouncing a common name in a different manner,” he said.
Jamie, drawing from her years running a business in Inglewood, shared her own encounters with unique names. “I met a girl named LaPrell because her mom was walking through the shampoo aisle and thought it sounded nice,” she said, adding that she’s heard names like Genevieve wanting to be called JeanBiebe. She laughed, “But Pikachu? That’s what I call my little tofu dog. What are people thinking?”
While some see these names as expressions of creativity, others argue they can make children targets for ridicule. Doug pointed out, “Name your child Poo? What do you think is gonna happen?” Jamie added, “It tells the parents how intelligent they are. You’re asking for it.”
As Japan takes steps to rein in sparkly names, it sparks a broader conversation about the balance between creativity and caution when naming children. Whether it’s Pikachu, Moon Unit, or LaPrell, the question remains: when does a unique name become too unique?
Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.
By: Fred Roggin
June 1, 2025
