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

Donald Clarke: Jimmy Kimmel was Very Polite About His Irish Trip, But He is Mistaken

I’m pleased the TV host enjoyed his time in Ireland, but Irish people are no more polite or generous than those back in his own country.

An Encounter in New York

About 4,000 years ago, I traveled to New York City on a J1 visa. Early on, I tried to get a job related to my field and quickly learned I had to speak with the union representing that line of work. The woman I met could not have been kinder, treating me almost like a long-lost relative.

“You came all this way without a job? Let’s see what we can do.”

She spent half an hour advising me, suggesting other jobs, and sharing endless useful phone numbers. When she was finished, she gave me a warm smile and said:

“Now, don’t let anyone tell you New Yorkers are rude.”

The thought hadn’t even crossed my mind. Up to that point, New Yorkers seemed brisk but just as polite as anyone in a big city. They simply didn’t have time for idle chatter.

Reflections on Jimmy Kimmel’s Ireland Visit

This memory came back to me while watching Jimmy Kimmel talk about his recent trip to Ireland. He did mention leprechauns early on, but mostly, he focused on praising our civility, friendliness, and political maturity. His kind words were appreciated, though perhaps a little overstated.

Author’s Summary

Jimmy Kimmel’s affectionate portrayal of Ireland is charming, yet it overlooks the fact that courtesy and kindness are universal, not national traits.

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

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