Actor Rob McElhenney, co-creator of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, has filed to legally change his name to Rob Mac to facilitate international business. While the change aligns with his on-screen persona and global ambitions, it’s causing a stir at home, especially with his kids.
Rob McElhenney Files to Legally Change Name to Rob Mac for Global Clarity
Actor and producer Rob McElhenney has filed legal documents in Los Angeles to officially change his name to Rob Mac, citing challenges with the pronunciation of his surname in international business dealings.
The 48-year-old, best known as the co-creator and star of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, has already been using the shortened name in professional settings for several weeks. His decision stems from increasing global engagements, particularly in South America, where his production company, More Better Productions, has been expanding operations. The company previously co-produced the docuseries Welcome to Wrexham, chronicling McElhenney and actor Ryan Reynolds’ ownership of the Welsh football club Wrexham AFC.
In a recent interview with Variety, McElhenney explained that the name change was a practical step as his work reaches audiences and collaborators in different languages and cultures. “As our business and storytelling expand globally, my name becomes increasingly difficult to pronounce, so I’ve opted to go by Rob Mac,” he said.
Though initially concerned that changing his name might seem disrespectful to his Irish heritage, McElhenney noted that several relatives had previously simplified the family name to make it easier to spell and pronounce. During a recent family gathering for his birthday, some members even expressed support for the change. However, his wife, actress Kaitlin Olson, shared that their two sons were less enthusiastic. “The kids are not happy about it, because they have that last name,” Olson said, adding that she also retains the McElhenney surname legally. However, she continues to use Olson professionally.
The simplified name also draws a connection to his long-running It’s Always Sunny character, who is known simply as Mac. McElhenney and Olson met on the show’s set in 2005, began dating during its second season, and married in 2008. They are parents to two sons, Axel and Leo.