Donald Clarke: Jimmy Kimmel was very polite about his recent Irish trip. But he is mistaken

Donald Clarke: Jimmy Kimmel's Irish Trip and the Reality of Irish Politeness

Jimmy Kimmel was very polite about his recent visit to Ireland, praising the country's decency, friendliness, and political maturity. However, I believe he misunderstood the nature of Irish people compared to Americans.

Personal Experience in New York

About 4,000 years ago—I use this humorously—I visited New York City on a J1 visa. Early on, I tried to find a job in a field I knew something about. I quickly learned I had to speak with the union representing that workforce.

The lady I met was incredibly helpful, as if I were family. She said,

“You came all this way without a job? Let’s see what we can do.”
After giving me advice, job leads, and numerous useful contacts, she smiled warmly and added,
“Now, don’t let anyone tell you New Yorkers are rude.”

At that time, I had only found New Yorkers occasionally brusque but never impolite, unlike the slow small-talk preferred by country folk.

Reflection on Kimmel’s View

This memory resurfaced while watching Jimmy Kimmel’s commentary on Ireland. Despite some early jokes about leprechauns, he mostly praised the Irish as decent and friendly.

Still, Irish people are no more polite or generous than Americans, contrary to Kimmel's impression.

“I’m glad the TV host had a good time here but Irish people are no more polite or generous than his fellow citizens back home.”

This highlights how perceptions of politeness and generosity can be influenced by personal biases and cultural differences.

Author's summary: Cultural perceptions often color our views on politeness, but genuine kindness is found everywhere, beyond stereotypes about national character.

Would you like the tone to be more formal or conversational?

more

The Irish Times The Irish Times — 2025-11-02

More News