Overview

• Sterling K. Brown revealed on The Kelly Clarkson Show that he went by his middle name, Kelby, until age 16 to differentiate himself from his father and grandfather, both named Sterling.
• The death of his father, Sterling Brown Jr., when Brown was 10 years old deeply influenced his decision to reclaim his first name as a way to honor his memory.
• Brown explained that hearing his father's name again after years of absence brought comfort and connection, leading him to ask others to call him Sterling.
• The emotional revelation moved host Kelly Clarkson to tears, resonating with audiences and sparking widespread online reactions to the touching moment.
• Brown's personal story mirrors themes of grief and identity explored in his acting roles, notably in 'This Is Us,' where similar familial dynamics play a central role.