By Fionnuala Boyle
True crime is a huge genre of non-fiction work right now. From documentaries and TV series to podcasts, crimes are examined in detail, including the actions of the people associated with and affected by the incident. A deep-dive may also be conducted into the perpetrator’s motives. True crime content has been dominating streaming charts and podcast playlists for years, and is more popular than ever. However, its influence may be spreading further than we think – and in an unnerving way. Names linked to infamous criminal cases, true crime celebrities , and viral scandals are trending. In short, parents are turning to cult documentaries and chilling podcasts for baby name inspiration, and they might not even realise it. “These names aren’t being chosen because of crime,” SJ Strum, BabyCentre UK’s Baby Naming Expert, said. “Parents are unconsciously absorbing popular culture, and these names creep in to our minds via gripping TV, podcasts, and viral content. It’s a fascinating lens on how culture shapes language, and by extension, baby names.” True Crime-inspired names in BabyCentre’s top 100 baby names making headlines (and head counts) in 2025 are: “Baby names often serve as a time capsule of the world babies are born into ,” Faye Mingo, at BabyCentre, said. “So it’s fascinating to watch how these trends unfold each year. And even more so when unexpected influences, like true crime, begin to make an impact.” But it’s not all crime and consequence. Inspired by the rise of high-society TV dramas like Succession and The White Lotus , today’s parents are leaning towards timeless name nobility. We’re seeing a resurgence of names that carry aristocratic weight, exuding elegance, heritage, and lasting sophistication, according to BabyCentre UK. Think names that wouldn’t be out of place on a trust fund registry or a marble family crest. These aren’t just names – they’re legacy statements for the next generation. Succession Chic names rising this year include: “We often choose names in tune with what’s happening in the world around us as we welcome our little ones,” SJ Strum went on. “For example, Evie, the newest addition to Peppa Pig’s family , is a perfect short and sweet vintage pick that’s now soaring in popularity. “We’ve also seen an uplift in names honouring the late Queen, like Eliza, Elsie, and Elizabeth. Royal -inspired names remain strong year-on-year: from Charlotte, Zara, and Mia, to George, Harry, William, Charlie, and Archie. “Even Princess has seen a surprising comeback, as the nation rallied around Princess Kate during her recent cancer treatment.”