Helsinki, the European city, is making a bold move to support Pamela Anderson in reconnecting with her Finnish heritage by offering assistance in changing her surname. Anderson, known for her roles in “Baywatch” and “The Last Showgirl,” recently expressed her strong bond with her Finnish grandfather, Herman Hyytiäinen. Originally, Hyytiäinen was the family name until it was altered to Anderson upon his arrival in Canada in 1908.
In an interview with Vogue Scandinavia, Anderson shared her desire to reclaim the Hyytiäinen name, stating, “Sometimes I don’t want to be Pamela Anderson. I want to be Pamela Hyytiäinen.” Despite her interest in a name change, she mentioned facing obstacles in doing so.
Noticing Anderson’s wishes, Helsinki has launched a campaign to support her in becoming a Hyytiäinen. Helsinki Partners, a marketing firm under the City of Helsinki, initiated an online ad campaign and erected billboards near Anderson’s residence on Vancouver Island. The promotional video features Finnish actor Janne Hyytiäinen, who humorously offers to assist Anderson in adopting the Hyytiäinen name through marriage, adoption, or a legal name change.
The campaign, dubbed “Operation Make Pamela a Hyytiäinen,” aims to entice Anderson to visit Helsinki, showcasing it as the world’s happiest nation and asserting she would find happiness there too. Billboard ads along Ladysmith, B.C., where Anderson hails from, specifically target her, emphasizing the connection to her Finnish roots.
Soila Lehkonen, head of brand and public relations at Helsinki Partners, describes the campaign as a warm invitation for Pamela to explore her Finnish origins in Helsinki. While Anderson’s response remains unknown, Lehkonen expressed Helsinki’s eagerness for her to visit Finland, with or without a name change. Helsinki extends an invitation for Anderson to experience the city and country, offering support should she decide to pursue a name alteration.