Does Hugh Laurie’s Accent in ‘House’ Suggest an American or British Origin?
Forging a character's identity is a delicate art in the world of television. Hugh Laurie has astounded audiences and professionals alike with his exceptional ability to embody both American and British accents, depending on the role. However, when it comes to his role as Dr. House in the medical drama series, questions often arise about his accent origins. Can we pinpoint what he sounds like and, more importantly, does his accent suggest an American or British connection?
The Playful Proliferation of Accents in ‘Jeeves and Wooster’
In Jeeves and Wooster, Hugh Laurie (1) effortlessly transitions to an English accent. This accent is unapologetically British, evoking the era and the characters he portrays with unparalleled authenticity. The role of Bertie Wooster, the classic upper-class twit, would have been virtually impossible to perform without a stereotypically
English accent. Laurie’s portrayal requires a different dialect, one that aligns with the upper crust of English society, and he pulls it off with a truly impeccable blend.
House in the New Jersey Scene
When Hugh Laurie takes on the role of Dr. Gregory House in the television series House, the dynamics shift entirely. In this medical drama, set in the seemingly mist-free and sunken New Jersey landscape, startlingly American accents abound. Yet, to the surprise of many viewers and critics, Hugh Laurie himself harnesses a near-perfect New Jersey accent for his character.
Initially, many were perplexed by this. One might assume that a British actor, especially one with an inherent English accent, would be hesitant to delve into a dialect so different from his naturally British one. But Laurie’s dedication to his craft knows no bounds, as evidenced by his commitment to portray House with a distinct local
New Jersey twang.
Why does it Matter?
The reason for this shift in accent is twofold. On one hand, it serves to establish local authenticity in the show's setting. The New Jersey accent helps ground the characters in a specific regional dialect, making the proceedings more relatable and real for the audience. On the other hand, it reflects the character himself. Dr. Gregory House, with his unpredictable and brusque demeanor, leans into the local vernacular, mirroring the character's street-smart and jaded nature.
Mastering the Accent: Behind the Scenes
Though many actors struggle with the nuance and complexity of regional American accents, Laurie’s ability to pull off a near-perfect New Jersey twang has been nothing short of exemplary. He spends considerable time and effort researching and practicing the dialect, understanding the precise ways in which New Jersey residents speak and inflect their sentences. His dedication is evident not just in the former and latter shows, but in every character he takes on. This commitment to accuracy in accent further cements his status as one of the best in the business.
Conclusion
When it comes to Hugh Laurie's accent in ‘House’, he expertly portrays a New Jersey accent, quite different from his natural English one. This choice is informed by both authenticity and the needs of the character. Whether playing Jeeves and Wooster with an English accent or bringing Dr. House to life with a distinct American one, Laurie’s versatility as an actor is on full display. This mastery of different dialects not only enhances the narrative of the show but also adds depth and richness to his performances.