Ever watch a movie or TV show and think, “Hey that America is top notch. Lemme Google the crap outta them” only to find out—cha-ching!—you just hit the jackpot and that actor you love so much is actually British. Or better yet—Australian!
For an out and proud Anglophile like me, who has a fondness for many dialects, I sometimes fall victim to faux accents. The deceit goes both ways though; I’ve encountered a Brit pretending to be a Yank pretending to be a Brit. Say what?
In honour of my little obsession, I’ve compiled a list of some of my favourite masters of accents (see what I did there? Oh, American language, why does the U offend you?) And in the spirit of pretending to be something I’m not, I’m going to finish writing this post with my Brit hat on. So, no… I’m not shite at spelling, this is just how you’re supposed to spell COLOUR.
THE LIST
Andrew Lincoln
For the longest time I didn’t even know this man was British. His southern Sheriff twang executed in The Walking Dead had me convinced he was American born and raised. Fun fact: Lincoln is this English actor’s stage name and his real name is Andrew James Clutterbuck. Good choice on the name change Andrew. Although, I probably would have guessed you were from England with a “unique” last name like that.
Torrance Coombs
What do you mean he’s not British!? This strapping illegitimate half-brother to King Francis on Reign is actually neither American nor British but Canadian. Sneaky, eh? OK. That was more Canadian than British—but, Torrance does such a spectacular job at faking the accent for the hit CW show that he could probably fool me 5-7 more times before I will accept the fact that he wasn’t born in the U.K.
Andrew Garfield
I’m still shocked at this one. The Amazing Spider-Man star is a dual citizen of the United States and the United Kingdom (oh how I wish I was as well) and actually began his career in the U.K. Fun fact: he’s 31. Not only is he clever with accents but he’s a wizard of youth as well.
Christian Bale
While compiling this list, I actually found out this Hollywood hunk was English. Ya fooled me, Mr. Bale. That American accent you did in The Dark Knight was on point, sir. Not much else to say—still in shock. Send tea and biscuits.
Rose Byrne
From Bridesmaids to Neighbors, I had no clue this actress was Australian. She expertly hides that magical accent of hers and was nominated for two Emmys and two Golden Globes based off making us all believe she was American. Well done, Rose. Well done.
Lauren Cohan
This one will throw you for a loop; this talented gal is an American-born British actress. Yep. That’s a mouthful. Ever since I saw Lauren in Chuck (moment of silence for one of the greatest spy comedies of all time) I knew there was something special about her and thought she just did a really great English accent. The Walking Dead made me think she was American—but surprise! She’s just really great at American accents.
Daniel Radcliffe
Honorable Mentions:
Yvonne Strahovski, Dexter
Freddie Highmore, Bates Motel
Hugh Laurie, House
Naomi Watts, The Impossible
Did any of these talented folks trick you? Did I miss someone? Let me know in the comment section below.
