Joey Lawrence, renowned for his roles in "Blossom" and "Brotherly Love," recently disclosed that his birth name is Joseph Lawrence Mignogna. During a panel at 90s Con, he explained that in the early 1980s, industry professionals suggested changing his surname to "Lawrence" for easier pronunciation and broader appeal. His brothers, Matthew and Andrew, adopted the same stage name to maintain family consistency in their entertainment careers.
While the name change initially provided a level of privacy and marketability, it has led to complications in their personal and legal affairs. Matthew highlighted challenges with international travel and legal documentation, noting that his official identification bears their original surname, causing discrepancies. Andrew echoed these sentiments, expressing frustration over managing dual identities.
Reflecting on their experiences, the Lawrence brothers expressed a desire to revert to their birth name, acknowledging the unforeseen difficulties that arose from the initial decision to change it. Despite these challenges, they continue to collaborate professionally, having launched the "Brotherly Love" podcast in 2023, where they discuss their careers and personal lives.