The Lawrence Brothers Regret Changing Their Last Name
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The famous Lawrence brothers, including Matthew, Joey, and Andrew, recently made a surprising confession at the 90s Con event held at the Connecticut Convention Center. During a panel discussion with PEOPLE’s Dory Jackson, the trio revealed their regrets about changing their family name and expressed their desire to revert to their original surname.
Joey Lawrence, whose legal name is Joseph Lawrence Mignogna, disclosed that the decision to adopt the stage name ‘Lawrence’ was influenced by the difficulty people faced in pronouncing ‘Mignogna’ back in the early ’80s. At that time, the entertainment industry preferred more mainstream and easily recognizable names, prompting Joey to use his middle name as a substitute.
Matthew Lawrence, aged 45, further explained that the adoption of the Lawrence surname offered them a level of privacy in their personal lives, shielding them from unwanted attention. However, the brothers now find themselves grappling with the inconvenience of having dual identities, particularly when it comes to international travel restrictions.
Despite the initial advantages of adopting the Lawrence surname, all three brothers voiced their unanimous desire to reclaim their original family name. Andrew Lawrence, the youngest of the siblings at 37, candidly expressed the challenges of navigating life with two different identities, lamenting the complexities it brings.
Reflecting on their successful careers in the entertainment industry, the Lawrence brothers recalled their early projects, including the sitcom ‘Brotherly Love,’ where they played fictional siblings. Joey Lawrence gained recognition for his roles in ‘Blossom’ and as the voice of Oliver in Disney’s ‘Oliver & Company.’ Matthew Lawrence earned praise for his appearances in ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’ and ‘Boy Meets World,’ while Andrew made his mark through ‘Recess’ and ‘Brotherly Love.’
In 2023, the brothers launched a podcast titled ‘Brotherly Love,’ offering fans a glimpse into their lives, careers, and shared experiences. Andrew expressed his enthusiasm for the podcast as a platform to reconnect with his brothers and engage in meaningful conversations, emphasizing the joy it brings him.
As they continue to navigate the complexities of fame and identity, the Lawrence brothers’ candid revelation at 90s Con sheds light on the challenges faced by celebrities in maintaining authenticity amidst the demands of the entertainment industry. Their story serves as a reminder of the importance of staying true to one’s roots and identity, even in the glitzy world of show business.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Lawrence brothers and their journey to reclaim their family name as they navigate the ever-evolving landscape of Hollywood and beyond.