Kate Winslet Critiques Robert Downey Jr.'s English Accent in 'The Holiday' Audition

Kate Winslet Says Robert Downey Jrs English Accent Was Dreadful During The Holiday Audition

Kate Winslet, Robert Downey Jr. Marion Curtis/StarPix for HBO Max/INSTARimages;MICHAEL TRAN/AFP via Getty Images

Kate Winslet jokingly mentioned that Robert Downey Jr.'s English accent had improved from his audition for The Holiday to his lead role in Sherlock Holmes in 2009. Jimmy Fallon also disclosed that he and Downey auditioned for different roles in the cult-classic 2006 rom-com, with Downey attempting a "bad" English accent.

Winslet, aged 48, shared a vivid memory during her appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on Wednesday, February 28. She recalled being under the impression that they were going to have a casual reading of the script, unaware that it was actually an audition for the role. She expressed regret that the other person did not get the part, apologizing for the misunderstanding.

During the conversation, Winslet also took the opportunity to apologize if she had come across as "mean" or "rude." However, Fallon, aged 49, reassured her that she had not displayed any such behavior.

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She added that it was a hotel room somewhere on the Upper East Side, where Robert Downey attempted an English accent that she mistakenly thought was Australian. She expressed doubt about its effectiveness, wondering who would inform him that it sounded dreadful. She concluded by remarking, "It wasn't actually that great."

They then delved into the trajectory of Downey's career, with Winslet commending him for his success following Oppenheimer. Downey has garnered numerous accolades for his portrayal of Lewis Strauss in the film, which premiered in July 2023. Additionally, he has been nominated for Best Supporting Actor at the upcoming Academy Awards.

Winslet and Fallon further delved into The Holiday, where the actress shared that she receives more recognition for the Christmas film than her iconic role in Titanic from 1997.

She mentioned, "I get approached more often about The Holiday and my appearance on Extras than Titanic, especially during the holiday season."

Winslet portrayed Iris Simpkins in the Nancy Meyers–directed film, alongside Cameron Diaz, Law, and Black.

Winslet expressed her delight in the special connection that mothers and daughters have with the film. She shared how people approach her in grocery stores to express their love for "The Holiday" and how it has become a cherished Christmas tradition for many families. Winslet finds it heartwarming to see the bond between mothers and daughters strengthened through the shared experience of watching the film.

Editor's P/S:

The article provides a glimpse into the humorous and self-deprecating nature of Kate Winslet and Robert Downey Jr. Winslet's recollection of Downey's questionable English accent during their initial audition for "The Holiday" exudes a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect. Her subsequent apology for not recognizing it as an audition reflects her amiable personality. The article also highlights Downey's impressive career trajectory, with Winslet acknowledging his success in "Oppenheimer" and his Academy Award nomination.

Overall, the article offers a lighthearted and entertaining account of the interactions between two esteemed actors, showcasing their genuine appreciation for each other's work and their ability to find humor in their past experiences. It also sheds light on the enduring popularity of "The Holiday" and its special place in the hearts of many.