20 Things You Didn't Know About The Truman Show

19. Even His Surname Is Manufactured

The Truman Show
Paramount

Having been adopted at birth from an unwanted pregnancy, everything about Truman's life was a lie. Growing up in a manufactured reality, he believed he lived in an idyllic, seaside location that was practically paradise. However, by the time it came to name Truman, the team must have been out of ideas.

The name Truman was originally derived from Old English words for "faithful" and "trustworthy" given to a member of the family who accurately represented those ideals. When taken a little more literally, the name simply boils down to "true man", a reference to the fact that he is the only part of this reality that is real.

As for his surname, the showrunners didn't have to look too far from the large, domed studio that contained Seahaven for inspiration. While the town was a seaside location, the dome was actually situated atop Mount Lee, just above the Hollywood sign.

This means that Truman Burbank actually lived in Burbank, California. Co-incidentally, Paramount Studios, where the film was shot, is also located in Burbank.

Contributor
Contributor

I'm just happy to be here