US quiz show host Ken Jennings impresses with Welsh pronunciation on Jeopardy
An American TV show host wowed viewers by showcasing his impressive Welsh pronunciation during a recent episode of the iconic US quiz show Jeopardy. Celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2024, the show has a vast audience in the US where contestants gain points by correctly guessing the question corresponding to a given answer.
In a recent episode, contestant Troy chose the ‘organisations’ category, where host Ken Jennings, who took over as the permanent host in 2023, asked a question about the British group Cymdeithas Yr Iaith Gymraeg, also known as this language society. Troy swiftly responded with “What’s Welsh”.
US television has had a long-standing fascination with pronouncing Welsh place names, with instances like Jimmy Fallon and Hugh Jackman struggling with Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch. However, Always Sunny in Philadelphia star Rob McElhenney demonstrated his pronunciation skills on Late Night with Stephen Colbert.
Wales has historical ties to the USA, notably with the Welsh Tract established in Pennsylvania in the 17th century. Also, Welsh remains spoken in America, with organisations like Cymdeithas Madog helping North Americans learn and enjoy the language. Furthermore, American actor Rob McElhenney co-owns the Welsh football club Wrexham A.F.C.
Welsh connections continue to thrive in the US, showing a shared appreciation for language and culture between the two nations.