James Gunn Expresses Concern for Trisha Paytas’ Son Named Aquaman: “Won’t He Get Made Fun Of?”

The internet continues buzzing after Trisha Paytas revealed her newborn son’s name as Aquaman Moses Paytas-Hacman, drawing a surprisingly candid reaction from DC Films co-CEO James Gunn. In an Entertainment Tonight interview on July 28, 2025, Gunn—who directed the 2018 Aquaman film—voiced concerns about potential bullying for the infant bearing the superhero’s name.

Why Trisha Paytas Chose Aquaman

Paytas and husband Moses Hacman, an underwater photographer, previously announced their water-themed naming tradition after daughters Malibu Barbie and Elvis. During a livestream last week, Paytas confirmed months of fan speculation that included guesses like “Ponyo” and “Free Willy.” She revealed “Aquaman” was chosen partly due to her admiration for Jason Momoa’s portrayal and the character’s oceanic ties. It just felt right with our family theme,” Paytas explained, noting the name starts with “A” as she’d previously teased. The choice follows her pattern of unconventional names, which she credits as celebrations of individuality.

James Gunn’s Protective Reaction

Gunn responded supportively yet cautiously when asked about the Trisha Paytas Aquaman baby name reveal. “I think that’s cool. I hope he does okay in school,” Gunn told Entertainment Tonight. Drawing from personal experience, he added: “I had a hard time with the last name ‘Gunn’—‘Tommy Gun,’ ‘BB Gun’… I’m like, okay, we get it.” The director then raised practical concerns: “Is the middle name Gary or something? What are they going to call him? Won’t he get made fun of in school? Do kids make fun of kids anymore?” Gunn’s comments highlighted societal debates about unique baby names and childhood bullying.

Social Media’s Divided Response

Reactions to Gunn’s interview flooded social media:

• “James just politely said, ‘Good luck, little dude’” (Twitter user @FilmFanatic)
• “That was the most diplomatic ‘yikes’ ever” (TikTok creator @PopCultureHotTakes)
• “He’s not wrong—kids can be cruel about unusual names” (Reddit parenting thread)

Paytas appeared unbothered, reposting Gunn’s interview clip on her Instagram story without comment. This mirrors her response to past criticism about her children’s names, emphasizing her commitment to self-expression.

While Aquaman Moses Paytas-Hacman’s name fuels online debate, Gunn’s protective instinct underscores a universal parenting worry: shielding children from ridicule. Paytas’ embrace of the spotlight ensures this discussion will continue as her son grows. What unconventional names would you defend? Share your thoughts using #NameDebate.

Must Know

Why did Trisha Paytas choose “Aquaman”?
The name aligns with her family’s water-themed tradition and her fandom of the DC character. Husband Moses Hacman’s career as an underwater photographer also influenced the choice, revealed during a July 2025 livestream.

What were James Gunn’s main concerns?
Gunn, director of 2018’s Aquaman, worried about potential school bullying and practical nicknames (“AQ?”), citing his own childhood teasing over the surname “Gunn” (Entertainment Tonight, July 28, 2025).

How did Paytas respond to Gunn’s comments?
She reposted the interview clip on Instagram without direct commentary, suggesting she took no offense. Historically, Paytas defends her naming choices as celebrations of individuality.

What are Trisha Paytas’ other children’s names?
Daughter Malibu Barbie (born 2022) and daughter Elvis (born 2023), continuing her pattern of unconventional, pop-culture-inspired names.