Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Man gets drunk and legally changes name to ‘Celine Dion’

It’s all coming back to him now

Louis Chilton
Friday 01 January 2021 09:47 EST
Comments
Celine Dion nails her musical impressions on Jimmy Fallon

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

A Staffordshire man reportedly changed his legal name to “Celine Dion” when he was intoxicated.

The man, a 30-year-old hospitality worker formerly known as Thomas Dodd, was a huge fan of the “Think Twice” singer, and claimed to have had the idea to change his name while watching a virtual concert. 

“I am slightly obsessed with [Dion], I’m not going to lie,” he said, speaking to Birmingham Live about the impulsive decision.

“During lockdown I’ve been watching a lot of live concerts on the TV. I can only think I’ve been watching one of hers and had a ‘great idea’ after a few drinks!”

After arriving home from work one day after Christmas, Dodd found a “big white envelope” waiting for him.

According to Dion, he “nearly passed out” after opening the document in his kitchen.

“My initial concern was how on earth do I tell the HR department at work that I need to change my email footer? Now I’m thinking it could be a great way to get backstage.

“I’m just praying I don’t get pulled over by the police for anything – that could get awkward! More annoyingly I’ve paid for eight extra certificates to prove it and they are £10 each!”

Dion confirmed that he did not intend to change his name back for the time being, adding that “it could be worse and it could’ve been Boris Johnson – we’re just lucky he doesn’t have any live concerts.”

Earlier this year, comedian Joe Lycett legally changed his name to “Hugo Boss” as part of a protest against the fashion giant’s business practices. 

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in