What is up with British actors taking over US television and film?

Last year, I was surprised to learn the Hugh Laurie is in fact British. Although I must give credit where it is due since his "American" accent is just flawless. Amusingly, I was hosting a Russian exchange student who enlightened me to that fact.

Well, today, I happened to catch a stand-up comic on BBC America. (Yes, I have a weakness for BBC, what can I say?) So, anyway, there is a man, well, sort of, make-up and women's clothes and all that. I always assumed he was a bit of a flamer. I've seen him before and always enjoyed his performances. He even did a guest spot on All My Children, one of our soap operas.

Imagine my shock to learn he is in fact Eddie Izzard - as in the leading man in the FX show The Riches. I love that show and from the very first time that I saw it, I couldn't help but think I recognized him without knowing just who he is. Now I know. It's amazing to see the versatility. I would never have connected the stand-up routine with the character in the show.

Not that I have anything against British entertainment. I think my fascination began with Monty Python among others, and later I fell in love with Gordon Ramsey's Kitchen Disasters, which, in turn, led me to discover Top Gear or whatever the car show is called. Honestly, I do love the sarcastic, witty sense of humor, but come on!

Maybe I'm just embarrassed that I didn't catch them right away. Usually it is so obvious. For example, Emma Thompson is wonderful, but I could always catch her accent.

Okay, so this isn't really a topic that will inspire debate, but I find it quite fascinating and just had to share!