Fact-Checking Amy Poehler’s Children: Full Names, Birth Dates, and Ages
Celebrity naming conventions often lean toward eccentric spellings or branding exercises. Poehler and Arnett resisted that urge entirely, selecting traditional names anchored by literary and family heritage.
Their eldest son, Archibald William Emerson Arnett, was born in New York City. The name Archibald carries traditional Scottish roots, historically translating to "genuine," "valuable," or "bold." His middle names honor family ancestry and classical literature, with "Emerson" paying subtle tribute to transcendentalist Ralph Waldo Emerson, a figure Poehler has referenced admiring for his perspectives on individuality and self-reliance.
Two years later, the couple welcomed their second son, Abel James Arnett. In contrast to his older brother's multi-syllable moniker, Abel represents a simpler, ancient Hebrew name meaning "breath" or "vapor." Paired with the timeless middle name James, the moniker gave the younger son an understated, classic identity. Throughout their school years, both boys have gone simply by Archie and Abel, avoiding the show-business branding that often follows the children of comedy royalty.