Big Brother host Julie Chen Moonves surprised viewers and industry insiders alike in 2018 when she began using her married name professionally.
Previously known for nearly 14 years by her maiden name, Julie Chen, she revealed her name change spontaneously during a live episode of Big Brother. The addition of Moonves, the surname of her husband Les Moonves, the former CEO of CBS, represented more than a mere name change.
Big Brother: Julie Chen Moonves Balancing Individuality and Identity
Julie Chen Moonves had already carved out a successful career in the broadcasting industry before her marriage. In her recent candid interview with Deadline, she provided the initial reasons for retaining her maiden name.
“When I married my husband, I chose not to take the name because I thought it could be seen as an unfair advantage. It was a powerful, popular name to have. And I had made my own career prior to knowing him. So, I wanted to keep that.”
Chen Moonves’ decision exemplifies the struggle many women face when considering whether to change their names after marriage, balancing personal identity and professional individuality.
Julie Standing by Les Moonves in Turbulent Times
In 2018, the broadcasting industry was rocked by sexual harassment allegations against Les Moonves. These allegations led to his resignation from CBS, despite his firm denial. Amidst this controversy, Julie Chen Moonves decided to demonstrate her solidarity with her husband. She did this by choosing to use her married name publicly.
As she explains, “When his name was getting dragged through the mud, I thought this is the time to make my stand and to let the world know who I am. And it was a sign of support for my husband. I know him. And he is a good man.”
I have literally never heard Julie Chen use her married last name on #BigBrother …. 🤔
— Taylor Roma (@tayl_roma) September 20, 2018
A Spontaneous Decision Made Live on Big Brother
Despite the significance of the decision, Julie Chen Moonves revealed that the name change announcement was not premeditated. The decision came to her during a live episode of Big Brother.
She recalled, “I made the change on the fly on a live show in the spur of the moment. I didn’t tell anybody. I was, like, toying with it, and I remember my heart racing while I thought, ‘Am I gonna do it?’ It just became a moment.”
Julie Chen Moonves is An Emblem of Loyalty and Strength
Since that memorable episode, Julie Chen Moonves has consistently used her married name on Big Brother. The decision, though initially spontaneous, is a testament to her loyalty and the strong bond she shares with her husband.
Despite the controversy surrounding Les Moonves, Julie chose to stand by him. She did this letting her professional name change serve as a constant reminder of her unwavering support.
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