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Baby names

19th Oct 2021

Massive increase in babies being named after ‘Sex Education’ characters

Ellen Fitzpatrick

Who would’ve thought?

There has been a massive increase in babies being named after TV show characters, but the surge Sex Education has seen is something else.

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) in the UK, Maeve and Otis have both made their way to the top of the ranks after the series aired, with them being two of the most popular names given to children born in 2020.

The ONS said that Otis was one of the highest climbers among the boys’ top 100 names, rising 28 places to 96th.

Maeve, however, seems to be even more popular, moving 124 places since 2019 to the 94th spot.

Sian Bradford, vital statistics outputs branch at the ONS, said: “Popular culture continues to provide inspiration for baby names, whether it’s characters in our favourite show or trending celebrities.

“Maeve and Otis, characters from the popular programme Sex Education, have seen a surge in popularity in 2020.”

Margot was another name that was rising through the ranks quickly, most likely after Australian actress Margot Robbie.

Olivia is another that is topping the table, remaining the most popular girls name for five years in a row.