Mike Myers on Canadian identity, politeness, and our 'very thick' accent

Canadianshave a "very thick" accent and only anger easily at hockey,if you ask comedian Mike Myers.

"We're very politically correct at times and I always think, well, isn't politically correct just being considerate and nice for the most part?" he told CBC's Wendy Mesley in an interview onThe National.

The Canadian actor and comedian shareda lot of opinions about his home country found in his new book called Canada. Naturally, Canadian versus American pronunciations came up in conversation.

"It's Owt, Owt" Myers jokes in his typical comic style, pointing to howAmericanssay"out."

Mike Myers talks to CBC's Wendy Mesley

8 years ago

Duration 1:43

The Canadian actor just released a new book about Canada

And the comparisons didn't end there.The former Saturday Night Livestar pointed out the comedy in witnessingCanadian kindness elsewhere in the world.

"Believe me, all you have to do is go to a country where people aren't polite and you kind of love the Canadian standoff of two Canadians in a doorway," he said."'After you,''Oh no buddy, after you,''After you.'And you're just sitting there.In New York you'd be like, 'GO!'"

Myers saidhe often wonders how to describe Canada to histhree children, all of whom are American.

"There's nobody more Canadian than a Canadian who no longer lives in Canada," said Myers, known forfilms such as Shrek, Austin Powers andWayne's World.

While he half-jokinglyargues that, compared to Britain and the U.S., Canada doesn't have as many cultural exports besidesAnne of the Green Gables,Canada'scontributions have a higher purpose.

"I think civility will be our greatest legacy."

Watch the full interview with Myers below.

Mike Myers: a proud Canadian

8 years ago

Duration 8:50

Wendy Mesley speaks with the famous comedian and actor about his first book, Mike Myers Canada