Names/Luke/Luke Perry
EntertainmentAmerican1966 – 2019

Luke Perry

Beverly Hills, 90210; Riverdale; 1990s television icon

Biography

Coy Luther Perry III (October 11, 1966 – March 4, 2019), professionally known as Luke Perry, was an American actor who became a prominent television personality during the late 1980s and 1990s. Perry achieved breakthrough fame playing Dylan McKay on the teen drama "Beverly Hills, 90210," which aired from 1990 to 2000 and made him a cultural icon of the era. His portrayal of the rebellious, dark-haired bad boy with a good heart resonated with audiences and made him one of the show's central characters. Beyond "Beverly Hills, 90210," Perry appeared in numerous television programs and films, demonstrating range as an actor. Later in his career, he took on the role of Fred Andrews, Archie's father, in the CW series "Riverdale," introducing him to a new generation of viewers. Perry was known for his professionalism, dedication to his craft, and charitable work. His sudden death from a stroke in March 2019 at age 52 shocked fans worldwide, with tributes highlighting his kindness and the lasting impact of his career. Luke Perry's legacy remains significant in television history, particularly as a defining actor of 1990s popular culture.

The Name Luke

Luke Perry's massive popularity during the 1990s significantly boosted the name Luke's usage among parents, making it one of the most popular baby names of the era and establishing it as a contemporary, appealing name.

Quick Facts
Category

Entertainment

Nationality

American

Born

1966

Died

2019

Thinking about the name

Luke

Latin origin

Derived from the Latin Lucanus, meaning 'from Lucania,' Luke is the name of one of the four Christian evangelists and author of the Gospel of Luke. The name has been steady across English-speaking cultures for centuries, combining biblical significance with approachable simplicity. Luke feels both timeless and contemporary—strong yet warm.