I assumed Joey Essex was a tv stage type name because he's in a tv show called The Only Way Is Essex. But his real surname is Essex.

Funny coincidence.

The only famous Essex I can think of is David Essex - pop singer of the 1970s/80s and actor. He's appeared in Eastenders and musicals.

David Albert Cook is David Essex's real name. Coincidence that Joey really is an Essex as far as I'm aware.

His name does sound rather porny to me...

With his Ken Doll looks, Joey wouldn't look out of place being in a porn movie as well.

Hadn't a clue who he was. He looks like Joe 90 to me.

I thought Joey Essex was that little gay kid with the blond hair - he also off TOWIE.

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/...17_468x819.jpg

I thought that it was a tv name as well..lol

So he didn't even have his name changed by deed poll?
He was actually born with the surname Essex?

I don't think he changed his name. He was born Joey Donald Essex apparently.

"That little gay kid" is Harry Derbidge. He hasn't been on TOWIE for two years.

Well, I wouldn't know about that. I don't watch the show. But his was the only face that came to mind who'd have a stupid name like Joey Essex.

I don't see what's stupid about it when its his actual name

It could be that Joey's father or grandfather legally changed their surname to Essex and carried that name on with their children. I only say that because, other than David Essex with his stage name, I've never heard of anyone else with that surname.

what? David isn't Joey's real dad?