Michael Keaton’s new chapter: A name change and a return to the big screen
A fresh start for a seasoned actor
Michael Keaton, the beloved actor known for his iconic roles in films like “Batman” and “Birdman,” is making headlines once again. This time, it’s not just for his return to the big screen in Tim Burton’s highly anticipated sequel, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, but also for a significant personal change. Keaton has announced plans to alter his official acting credit to something closer to his birth name, Michael Douglas.
The origin of ‘Keaton’
In a recent interview, Keaton shared the story behind his stage name. When he first sought his Screen Actors Guild card in the late 1970s, he discovered that the name Michael Douglas was already taken by the famous actor. Additionally, “Mike Douglas” was the name of a well-known talk show host. Faced with these challenges, Keaton had to come up with an alternative.
“I was looking through—I can’t remember if it was a phone book,” Keaton recalled. “I must’ve gone, ‘I don’t know, let me think of something here.’ And I went, ‘Oh, that sounds reasonable.’”
A hybrid name for the future
Moving forward, Keaton expressed his desire to use a hybrid of both names: Michael Keaton Douglas. He even intended to use this new credit for his directorial project, Knox Goes Away, but the change slipped through the cracks.
“I said, ‘Hey, just as a warning, my credit is going to be Michael Keaton Douglas.’ And it totally got away from me,” Keaton admitted. “And I forgot to give them enough time to put it in and create that. But that will happen.”
‘Knox Goes Away’: A noir thriller with a personal touch
In Knox Goes Away, Keaton stars as a hitman trying to reconcile with his son before dementia takes over. The film features a stellar supporting cast, including James Marsden, Suzy McKinnon, Marcia Gay Harden, and Al Pacino. Critics have praised the film for its gripping narrative and Keaton’s nuanced performance.
One review highlighted, “‘Knox Goes Away’ is a silky and entrancing thriller directed by its star. In addition to being a noir that holds you exactly the way a noir should, it may be one of the best dramas about dementia I’ve ever seen…As a hit-man thriller, ‘Knox Goes Away,’ in my opinion, leaves David Fincher’s meticulously engineered but rather hollow ‘The Killer’ in the dust. That’s because Keaton, in every scene, blends execution with humanity.”
The return of Beetlejuice
Fans are eagerly awaiting Keaton’s return in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, set to hit theaters on September 6. The film, directed by Tim Burton, promises to be a nostalgic yet fresh take on the beloved classic. Keaton’s performance as the mischievous ghost is expected to be a highlight, bringing his unique blend of humor and intensity to the role.
Reflecting on a storied career
Keaton’s decision to change his name is a poignant reminder of his journey in Hollywood. From his early days navigating the complexities of stage names to his current status as a respected actor and director, Keaton’s career has been marked by versatility and resilience. His ability to reinvent himself while staying true to his craft is a testament to his enduring appeal.
Looking ahead
As Keaton embarks on this new chapter, fans can look forward to seeing “Michael Keaton Douglas” in future credits. Whether it’s through his performances in films like Beetlejuice Beetlejuice or his directorial ventures like Knox Goes Away, Keaton continues to captivate audiences with his talent and authenticity.
For those who have followed his career, this name change is more than just a rebranding; it’s a celebration of his legacy and a nod to the future. As we await his upcoming projects, one thing is certain: Michael Keaton, or Michael Keaton Douglas, will always be a name to watch in the world of cinema.