Australian Influencer Sparks Debate After Naming Daughter After Disney’s Bambi — Same as Molly-Mae Hague
Note: This story originally made headlines in November 2023 and is being republished.
In the world of baby names, few choices spark as much debate as the ones that break tradition. For Australian influencer Indy Clinton, the decision to name her newborn daughter Bambi was less about courting controversy and more about following her heart. Still, the name instantly placed her in the center of a public conversation — one already ignited when Love Island star Molly-Mae Hague revealed she had chosen the same name for her daughter with Tommy Fury.
*Selfie of Indy Clinton in the car. Photo Credit: indyclinton/Instagram*
When Molly-Mae announced her daughter’s name in early 2023, Instagram erupted with both praise and criticism, many questioning the decision to borrow the name from the beloved Disney fawn. But Indy — a 25-year-old Melbourne-based fitness blogger — didn’t just embrace the name herself; she openly defended Molly-Mae’s choice. “People will criticize anything these days, so at least give them something to talk about,” Indy said.
For Indy, the inspiration came long before social media caught wind of the controversy. She had always loved the classic Disney story and had often read the book to her firstborn, Navy. At first, she was leaning toward the name Paloma for baby number two. But as soon as she met her daughter’s “sweet, curious nature” and saw her “big brown eyes,” the resemblance to the animated deer sealed the decision.
*A pregnant Indy Clinton posing on the red carpet. Photo Credit: indyclinton/Instagram*
Indy says she was stunned to learn Molly-Mae had also picked the name. “Four months ago, when I was giving birth, I was convinced Bambi was the most unique, unusual name that nobody would use. Good on Molly-Mae though; looks like great minds think alike.”
*Indy Clinton with her newborn in the hospital. Photo Credit: indyclinton/Instagram*
Friends and family were surprised, but Indy remained unfazed. She believes that baby names should reflect individuality rather than conform to popular expectations. “Unique names are the new trend,” she said, brushing off any hint of regret.
*Indy Clinton’s newborn baby laying on a bed. Photo Credit: indyclinton/Instagram*
For Indy, Bambi isn’t just a name — it’s a statement. It’s about honoring a personal connection, ignoring the noise of public opinion, and celebrating a shift toward more unconventional, storybook-inspired choices. In her eyes, individuality will always outshine conformity, especially when it comes to naming the people we love most.