[sp332]

When people shorten my name, it's familiar and it's a relief because I don't have to smile through their awkward pronunciation.

The point is, it should be your choice what you are called. Having someone else "take your name away" is just as demeaning as the article says. And yeah, I think actresses' names are shortened a lot more often than male actors'.

[someagin]

I was referenced in 4 different ways by 15 different people in a meeting today. My name is still intact and I am whole.

I think we should be careful with our words; there are people that have had their names (and more) literally taken from them. Using such an evocative phrase in this manner is irresponsible.