Moira Rose, the eccentric matriarch of the Rose family in Schitt’s Creek, has a distinctive and captivating way of speaking that has intrigued viewers and dialect coaches alike. While there is no specific accent that perfectly matches Moira’s speech, it is a unique blend that incorporates elements of British, Canadian, and old Hollywood accents.
Firstly, Moira’s accent carries hints of British influence. This can be observed in her pronunciation of certain words and her overall cadence. For example, she tends to elongate certain vowel sounds, such as in words like “dear” or “here.” This elongation is reminiscent of the Received Pronunciation (RP) accent commonly associated with the British upper class. Additionally, Moira occasionally uses British terms and phrases, further adding to the British undertones of her speech.
At the same time, Moira’s accent also exhibits Canadian influences. As the show is set in Canada and features a predominantly Canadian cast, it is natural for some Canadian speech patterns and sounds to seep into Moira’s accent. While Moira’s Canadian influence may not be as pronounced as her British elements, it can be heard in her pronunciation of certain words and her overall intonation.
Furthermore, Moira’s speech has been described as having a touch of old Hollywood glamour. This can be seen in her dramatic delivery, theatrical mannerisms, and her use of grandiose vocabulary. Moira often employs extravagant and flowery language, which harks back to the golden age of Hollywood. This theatricality adds a unique flavor to her accent and contributes to her larger-than-life personality.
It is worth noting that Moira’s accent is not a perfect replica of any specific regional or social accent but rather a deliberate creation by the actress, Catherine O’Hara. O’Hara’s portrayal of Moira Rose is a masterful combination of various influences, resulting in a distinct and captivating speech pattern that has become one of the show’s defining features.
Moira Rose’s accent is a fascinating amalgamation of British, Canadian, and old Hollywood influences. While her elongated vowel sounds and occasional use of British terms reflect a British undertone, her Canadian roots and the show’s setting bring in elements of Canadian speech patterns. Additionally, Moira’s dramatic delivery and grandiose vocabulary add a touch of old Hollywood glamour to her accent. The unique combination of these influences makes Moira’s speech a truly one-of-a-kind creation that has captivated audiences and sparked the interest of dialect coaches.