For decades, the Birmingham accent—often referred to as Brummie—was one of the most ridiculed and overlooked accents in the UK.
It was dismissed as monotonous, untrustworthy, and even ‘unintelligent’ by those who have failed to appreciate its unique charm. But times have changed. The Brummie accent has undergone a transformation, rising from the ashes of outdated stereotypes to claim its place in the cultural limelight. And I have had the privilege of playing a small part in this evolution.
A History of Unfair Prejudice
Despite Birmingham being the UK’s second-largest city and a historical hub of industry and innovation, its accent has long been the subject of mockery. Comedians and media portrayals often reinforced negative stereotypes, painting Brummies as slow-witted or uncharismatic. Even studies suggested that people perceived the accent as ‘less attractive’ or ‘less authoritative’ than others.
But why?
The Brummie accent is distinct, a marriage of 'older' Northern vowels (BATH has the same vowel as TRAP, and STRUT often has a vowel the same as/close to that in FOOT) and 'newer' Southern ones (PRICE starts far back in the mouth, FACE starts with a more open vowel than in the Southwest and North), and unique intonations (not flat, but covering a wide range of pitch likely to end a phrase on a flat (♭) note). It’s an accent of working-class resilience, a reflection of the region’s deep history of craftsmanship, engineering, and culture.
However, Beryl Reid’s portrayal of Marlene in the BBC radio comedy Educating Archie (1950–1958) played a significant role in shaping negative perceptions of the Birmingham accent. As a recurring character in the show, Marlene was known for her catchphrase—delivered in an exaggerated Brummie drawl—“She knows, y’know!”.
While beloved by audiences at the time, the character reinforced the stereotype of Brummie speech as simplistic, comical, and lacking in intelligence. Reid’s portrayal helped cement the idea that the Birmingham accent was best suited for humour rather than serious or sophisticated roles, a stigma that took decades to overcome.
The Turning Point: Peaky Blinders and Cultural Shifts
One of the biggest turning points for the Birmingham accent’s reputation came with the success of Peaky Blinders. The gritty BBC drama, featuring Cillian Murphy as the ruthless yet sophisticated Tommy Shelby, brought non-comedic (attempts at) Brummie accents to a global audience.
Suddenly, what was once dismissed as ‘ridiculous’ became stylish and intriguing. The Shelby family’s blend of menace and charm gave the accent an air of authority and allure that had long been denied.
But the rise of the Brummie accent in public perception didn’t happen overnight, nor was it solely due to TV. The increasing focus on regional diversity in media, the growing appreciation of authenticity in film and theatre, and the public’s fatigue with the dominance of RP (Received Pronunciation) all contributed to the shift.
My Role: Helping Actors Get It Right
As a dialect coach, I’ve had the opportunity to work with actors looking to perfect a range of accents. The Brummie accent, in particular, has seen a surge in demand as filmmakers and theatre directors aim for more authenticity in their portrayals of Midlands characters. I’ve helped actors refine their Brummie delivery, ensuring they capture its nuances without falling into caricature.
It was the subject I chose for my Knight-Thompson Speechwork certification, during which I coached actor Edyta Budnik in the accent, for which I created this accent breakdown.
One of the biggest challenges is breaking down preconceived notions. Many actors approach the Brummie accent with hesitation, shaped by years of hearing it misrepresented or exaggerated. My job is to guide them past the stereotypes and into the real rhythm of the speech—helping them understand not just the sounds but the attitude and cultural roots behind them.
The Future of the Brummie Accent
The Brummie accent’s journey from ‘rags to riches’ is far from over. While it has regained some semblance of respectability, there’s still work to be done in dismantling the lingering prejudices that surround regional accents in general. As more Brummie voices take centre stage in film, theatre, and media, I believe the accent will continue to rise in prominence and prestige.
For me, being part of this shift is more than just a professional endeavor—it’s a statement about the power of language, representation, and identity. Accents are not just about pronunciation; they carry the weight of history, community, and personal expression. And my childhood accent, once dismissed, is now having its well-earned moment in the spotlight.
Long live the Brummie accent!
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