NRL Star Todd Carney and Susie Bradley Welcome Son 'King Daryl' Amid Name Controversy
Todd Carney, Susie Bradley Welcome Son 'King Daryl'

NRL Star Todd Carney and Susie Bradley Announce Birth of Second Son

Former NRL champion Todd Carney and reality TV star Susie Bradley have shared the joyous news of the safe arrival of their second child, a boy named King Daryl Carney. The couple posted heartfelt pictures on social media to announce the birth, which occurred on February 22, 2026, at 4:50 PM on the Gold Coast. This marks Todd's second son and Susie's third child overall, adding to their growing family.

Unusual Name Sparks Immediate Concern Among Followers

In their emotional announcement, the couple expressed their deep love for their new son, writing, "The most magical moments - the ones you wish you could hold onto and relive forever - yesterday was one of those days. The moment we held you, the rest of the world simply melted away." They explained the choice of name, stating, "King ? A name which denotes strength, confidence and leadership. May you always stand tall in who you are, lead with love, and know how deeply you are cherished."

However, the name King Daryl Carney quickly raised eyebrows among their social media followers. One concerned commenter warned, "Hey beautiful, I don't want to ruin this beautiful moment but is King his first name? When you file to register him at birth, if you put his name as King, they won't allow it." Another added, "Congratulations, he is beautiful - I don't actually think children are allowed to be called King though."

Legal Restrictions on Royal Titles in Australia

In Australia and New Zealand, laws enforced by the Births, Deaths, Marriages Registry prohibit names that resemble official titles, ranks, or royal titles. This includes names like King, Queen, Prince, Princess, Admiral, and Duke, which are banned nationwide. Other prohibited names extend to religious titles such as Bishop, Pope, God, Dalai Lama, Devil, Saint, and Jesus Christ, as well as brand names like Ikea, offensive terms like Adolf Hitler and Nazi, and obvious swear words.

One follower suggested an alternative, saying, "If they go to refuse, maybe they could go with Kingston to get approved that way," highlighting potential workarounds for the couple. The legal hurdles mean that if registered as King, the name may not be accepted, posing a challenge for the family's birth registration process.

Background on Todd Carney and Susie Bradley

Todd Carney, aged 39, is a celebrated NRL figure who won the Dally M Medal, the league's MVP award, in 2010. He represented Australia and New South Wales, enjoying a decorated career with clubs including the Canberra Raiders, Cronulla Sharks, and Sydney Roosters during the 2000s and 2010s. Susie Bradley, 32, gained fame after appearing on Season 6 of the reality TV show Married at First Sight.

The couple has faced a tumultuous relationship journey, getting engaged in 2022, calling it off, re-engaging in 2024, and finally marrying in 2025. Susie revealed that their latest addition was conceived through IVF treatment, sharing, "With a little bit of perseverance and a whole lotta love, we finally got you," reflecting on their fertility struggles.

As they celebrate this new chapter, the family's focus remains on their children, with the couple adding, "You, along with your sister and brother, are our entire world, little King. There won't be a single day when we aren't endlessly thankful to have been blessed with you all." The announcement has garnered hundreds of good wishes online, but the name controversy continues to stir discussion among fans and legal observers alike.