Why Brandon Sklenar Doesn’t Use His Real Last Name Professionally: ‘No One Has Ever Asked Me That’ (Exclusive)

Brandon Sklenar Explains the Reason Behind Choosing a Stage Name (Exclusive)

Brandon Sklenar, known for his roles in ‘1923’ and ‘It Ends With Us’, has opened up about why he doesn’t use his birth name, Brandon Feakins, professionally. Adopting his mother’s maiden name as his stage name, the actor revealed that the decision was driven by the constant mispronunciation of his original surname during his formative years. Sklenar, a 34-year-old actor from New Jersey, shared insights into his personal connection to his chosen stage name during an interview with PEOPLE.

Raised by his father, Bruce Feakins, who worked in construction, and his mother, former hairdresser Francine, Sklenar explained that the adoption of the surname Sklenar was a deliberate choice to avoid the frustrations he faced with his birth name. Despite acknowledging that people also mispronounce his current surname, he expressed that he could tolerate it better as it was a name given to him in adulthood, unlike his birth name which had caused constant mispronunciations throughout his childhood.

Sklenar further elaborated on his decision, stating, “I didn’t want to pick something completely arbitrary that meant nothing. So I took my mother’s maiden name because it was real.” This personal touch added depth and significance to his stage name, making it a meaningful choice beyond just a professional moniker. While acknowledging that mispronunciations still occur with his current surname, Sklenar highlighted that the frequency has decreased as his career has progressed, allowing him to establish a stronger association with his chosen identity in the entertainment industry.

The actor’s career trajectory has been marked by perseverance and dedication, with Sklenar sharing that he has been ‘pounding away for the last 16 years’ in pursuit of his acting goals. His breakout role in the Yellowstone prequel ‘1923’ garnered attention, followed by a significant contribution to the adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s novel ‘It Ends With Us’. Sklenar’s latest project, the thriller ‘Drop’, showcases his versatility as he embodies the character of Henry, a photographer entangled in a suspenseful narrative alongside Meghann Fahy’s character.

Reflecting on his role in ‘Drop’, Sklenar expressed excitement at the challenge of portraying a character whose development unfolds primarily through dialogue and interpersonal dynamics. The actor’s love for a diverse range of horror films and his appreciation for the nuanced aspects of character-driven storytelling were evident as he delved into the intricacies of his role. With ‘Drop’ set to captivate audiences with its suspenseful narrative, Sklenar’s portrayal of Henry promises to deliver a gripping performance that showcases his talents in a new light.

As Sklenar continues to carve his path in the entertainment industry, his thoughtful approach to his craft and his personal connection to his chosen stage name offer a glimpse into the complexity and depth of his artistic journey. With projects like ‘Drop’ expanding his repertoire and showcasing his versatility, Brandon Sklenar’s unique identity both on and off the screen serves as a testament to his passion for storytelling and commitment to his craft. Fans can look forward to experiencing more of Sklenar’s compelling performances as he continues to make his mark in the world of cinema.