Hollywood Stars You'Ve Been Mistaking For Americans

Hollywood Stars with Surprising Origins

When you think of the quintessential American actor, certain faces probably come to mind. Yet, some of Tinseltown's brightest lights have been fooling audiences for years with their flawless American accents. These celebrities have become so embedded in American pop culture that most people never question their origins.

Charlie Hunnam – The English Rebel Playing American Outlaws

Charlie Hunnam was born Charles Matthew Hunnam on April 10, 1980, in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. Recognizable for his rugged portrayals in "Sons of Anarchy," "Pacific Rim," and "The Lost City of Z," Hunnam plays the part of a down-home American man so convincingly that his roots might surprise you. From 2008 to 2014, Hunnam starred as Jackson 'Jax' Teller, leader of SAMCRO, in the fictional town of Charming, California. Kurt Sutter, the show's creator, cast him after seeing Hunnam's role in "Green Street Hooligans."

“I think it was very helpful to grow up in Canada, or in a small town," Ryan Gosling once said, reflecting on his roots.

Ryan Gosling – The Notebook's Canadian Heartthrob

Another heartthrob, Ryan Gosling, hails from our friendly neighbor to the north – Canada. Proud of his roots, Gosling is known for his roles in "The Notebook," "Blue Valentine," and "Crazy, Stupid, Love." Despite being born in London, Ontario, Gosling's charisma and acting chops have made him feel like the quintessential American boy-next-door. Having briefly lived with Justin Timberlake in America, he cemented his status as a Hollywood mainstay with his portrayal of romantic leads in distinctly American narratives.

Kiefer Sutherland – Jack Bauer's British-Canadian Identity

Who would have thought that Jack Bauer, the all-American hero in "24," is played by a British-Canadian actor? Kiefer Sutherland, born in Paddington, London, and later moving with his family to Canada, has perfected the American accent to a T. The actor, known for his roles in "A Few Good Men" and "The Lost Boys," eventually made his way to California, blending so seamlessly into the Hollywood landscape that his international roots often go unnoticed.

Their ability to master American accents and embody quintessentially American characters speaks to their exceptional acting abilities. These actors have enriched Hollywood's storytelling, bringing international perspectives to audiences who might not even realize it.