NASCAR driver Ryan Blaney has long harbored a deep passion for the Star Wars franchise, dreaming of roles from stormtrooper parts to more prominent appearances. As he and his wife Gianna Tulio prepare for the arrival of their first child later this year, Blaney’s enthusiasm for the iconic saga has extended into hopes of naming their baby after a Star Wars character. However, this wish has been firmly declined by Tulio, putting an end to any immediate plans for a Star Wars-inspired name for their son.
Blaney’s desire to intertwine his fandom with family life surfaced during a recent event at Dover, where a NASCAR reporter posed the question about naming the baby after someone from Star Wars. Blaney’s playful attempt to suggest names like “Luke” was quickly shot down by Tulio, who remains steadfast against incorporating the series into their child’s name. Despite his efforts and creativity — including a failed suggestion involving ‘Lego,’ a nod to the popular Star Wars construction toys — Tulio’s veto is final.
This interaction highlights the intersection of Blaney’s personal passion for Star Wars and the forthcoming responsibilities of parenthood, where blending fandom with family traditions sometimes encounters boundaries.
Star Wars Fan Blaney’s Attempts to Sneak in Tribute Names
Ryan Blaney has previously expressed a strong desire to be part of the Star Wars universe, joking about taking any role, even as an unrecognized stormtrooper where his face wouldn’t be seen. His fandom is well-known, and he openly shares this enthusiasm in interviews and social interactions. At Dover, NASCAR reporter Peter Stratta inquired if Blaney and Tulio had considered giving their child a Star Wars-inspired name, prompting a lighthearted exchange.
“No. I knew better than to ask that question,”
Blaney responded with a smile when confronted about the possibility, acknowledging what his wife’s reaction would be.
When pressed on which names he had proposed to his wife, Blaney revealed he had tried to introduce “Luke” early on. He also confessed to attempting a more subtle approach, suggesting “Lego,” referencing the Star Wars-themed Lego brand. However, Tulio was quick to catch this and refused the idea.
“She was like, ‘Isn’t that a Star Wars thing?’ I was like, ‘Maybe.’ She was like, ‘None of that,’”
Blaney recalled.
Clearly, Tulio is well aware of Blaney’s love for the franchise and has put a firm boundary in place about its influence on their child’s name. This moment demonstrates the careful balance couples often navigate between personal interests and shared family decisions.
Gianna Tulio Addresses Pregnancy Rumors and Supports Blaney’s Racing Schedule
While Blaney’s enthusiasm for Star Wars faces limits in the nursery, Tulio herself has been managing widespread speculation about her condition and personal life. Recently stepping back from public appearances at races because of pregnancy-related symptoms, Tulio took the opportunity to clarify rumors and offer support for her husband’s demanding NASCAR schedule.
“There’s a lot of speculation going around. Everyone either thinks I’m pregnant, or they’re like, ‘Gianna and Ryan are having issues. She’s not at the track.’ And I’m like, ‘I’m just pregnant.’ I’m just pregnant and sick, don’t worry,”
she shared during the Believe in the Good podcast with Haley Dillon.
Despite needing more rest off-track, Tulio has shown eagerness to accompany Blaney whenever possible. Prior to the Sonoma Raceway event in California, she shared an update flaunting her baby bump in a picture captioned Bumpin’ around Sonoma, symbolizing her continued involvement and excitement in both her pregnancy and her husband’s career.
Blaney has expressed relief that the baby’s expected delivery coincides with NASCAR’s off-season, allowing him to dedicate time fully to family during this important phase.
“We’re in the winter, so that takes a lot of stress off,”
he reflected, highlighting the logistical benefits amid their transition to parenthood.
What Lies Ahead for Blaney’s Star Wars Naming Ambitions
Ryan Blaney’s passion for Star Wars and dreams of including its legacy in his family’s life are clear. However, with Gianna Tulio’s firm opposition, his Star Wars baby name plan for their first child has been effectively ended. Whether this veto remains for future children if they choose to expand their family is yet to be seen, but for now, Tulio’s perspective prevails.
The situation captures an often relatable scenario where personal fan devotion meets the realities and compromises of family life. Blaney’s public openness about his fandom alongside Tulio’s candid remarks also offer fans insight into their dynamic and priorities heading into parenthood.
As the couple anticipates welcoming their son, the focus remains on supporting Blaney’s racing journey while embracing the new chapter of fatherhood without a Jedi-inspired name. NASCAR followers and Star Wars enthusiasts alike will be watching to see how Blaney’s interests evolve and what name the new arrival ultimately receives.
