Damon Runyan and Damon Runyon are two names that might sound familiar to fans of movies, TV shows, and Broadway musicals. But are they related in any way, or is it just a coincidence that they share such a similar surname? In this article, we will explore the backgrounds of both men and reveal the truth behind their names.
Who is Damon Runyan?
Damon Runyan is a Canadian actor who was born in Toronto in the 1970s. He is best known for his roles in TV shows such as Gangland Undercover, Star Trek: Discovery, Degrassi: The Next Generation, and Home Before Dark. He has also appeared in several movies, such as Anon, Very, Very, Valentine, and Christmas in Washington. He is married to actress Jodie Dowdall since 2016.
Who is Damon Runyon?
Damon Runyon was an American journalist and short-story writer who was born in Manhattan, Kansas, in 1880. He was famous for his stories about the colorful characters and events of Broadway and New York City during the Prohibition era. His stories featured gamblers, hustlers, gangsters, and actors with distinctive names such as Nathan Detroit, Harry the Horse, Dave the Dude, and The Seldom Seen Kid. His style of writing was known as “Runyonese”, which used formal speech and slang in the present tense without contractions. He was also a prolific sports reporter and columnist for various newspapers and magazines. He died in New York City in 1946.
Are They Related?
The answer is no. Damon Runyan and Damon Runyon are not related by blood or by marriage. They have different spellings of their last names, which indicate different origins. According to Ancestry.com, the name Runyan is derived from an Irish surname O’Runain or O’Ronain, while the name Runyon is derived from a French surname Rognon or Rognier.
However, there is a connection between them. Damon Runyan, the actor, chose his stage name as a tribute to Damon Runyon, the writer. He was inspired by his stories and admired his style of writing. He also felt that his name was too common and wanted to stand out in the entertainment industry. He decided to drop the letter “o” from his surname and adopt the name of his literary idol.
Conclusion
Damon Runyan and Damon Runyon are two successful men in their respective fields of acting and writing. They have entertained millions of people with their performances and stories. They have also created a confusion among some people who wonder if they are related or not. The truth is that they are not related at all, but they do share a common admiration for each other’s work. Damon Runyan chose his stage name as a homage to Damon Runyon, who influenced his career and personality.