12 Most Cringe-Worthy British Accents in Film

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I’ll admit it: I love a good accent. But when it comes to British accents in movies and TV shows, sometimes even the best actors manage to miss the mark. Whether it’s a cringe-worthy cockney or a posh British tone that sounds like it’s from another planet, a bad accent can distract from an otherwise great performance. What’s fascinating is how these misfires happen—actors spend hours training, yet still, some accents end up more memorable for their flaws than their authenticity.

Here are 12 actors whose British accents left audiences scratching their heads. These performances remind us that, even in Hollywood, mastering the Queen’s English is easier said than done.

Dick Van Dyke in Mary Poppins

Dick Van Dyke’s portrayal of Bert, the cheerful chimney sweep, is legendary—but not for his accent. His attempt at a Cockney accent in the 1964 classic Mary Poppins is often cited as one of the worst in film history. Even Van Dyke himself has acknowledged its shortcomings, humorously apologizing for it over the years.

Anne Hathaway in One Day

In the romantic drama One Day, Anne Hathaway plays Emma, a Yorkshire native. Unfortunately, her accent wavers throughout the film, often slipping back into her natural American tone. Critics and audiences alike found it inconsistent and distracting.

Keanu Reeves in Bram Stoker’s Dracula

Keanu Reeves took on the role of Jonathan Harker in Bram Stoker’s Dracula, but his British accent was widely panned. It came across as stilted and unconvincing, detracting from his performance in the gothic horror film.

Don Cheadle in the Ocean’s Eleven Series

Don Cheadle’s portrayal of Basher Tarr in the Ocean’s Eleven series is memorable, but his Cockney accent is not. Critics have compared it to Dick Van Dyke’s infamous attempt, noting its exaggerated and inauthentic sound.

Natalie Portman in V for Vendetta

In V for Vendetta, Natalie Portman plays Evey Hammond, a British citizen. While her performance was strong, her British accent was criticized for being inconsistent and unconvincing, which some felt undermined the character’s authenticity.

Cameron Diaz in Gangs of New York

Cameron Diaz’s role as Jenny Everdeane in Gangs of New York required an Irish accent, but her attempt was widely criticized. It fluctuated throughout the film, often sounding more American than Irish, which detracted from her character’s credibility.

Kevin Costner in Robin Hood Prince of Thieves

Kevin Costner’s portrayal of Robin Hood is notable for his decision to forgo a British accent entirely. His American accent stood out in the medieval English setting, leading to criticism and parody.

Robert Downey Jr. in Sherlock Holmes

Robert Downey Jr. took on the iconic role of Sherlock Holmes with a British accent that received mixed reviews. Some found it passable, while others felt it was inconsistent and detracted from his portrayal of the famous detective.

Brad Pitt in Snatch

Brad Pitt’s portrayal of Mickey O’Neil in Snatch featured a thick Irish Traveler accent that was intentionally difficult to understand. While it added to the character’s mystique, some viewers found it over-the-top and hard to follow.

Julia Roberts in Mary Reilly

In Mary Reilly, Julia Roberts attempted an Irish accent that was widely criticized. Her inconsistent delivery and American intonations made it difficult for audiences to fully engage with her character.

Lindsay Lohan in The Parent Trap

As a child actor, Lindsay Lohan played dual roles in The Parent Trap, one of which required a British accent. While impressive for her age, her accent was not entirely convincing, often slipping into her natural American speech patterns.

Mickey Rooney in The Fox Hunt

Mickey Rooney’s attempt at a British accent in The Fox Hunt is less well-known but equally cringeworthy. His exaggerated and inconsistent delivery made it clear that mastering the accent was a challenge.