The idea might seem like something out of a fantasy, but “Foreign Accent Syndrome” is a genuine, albeit very rare, neurological condition! It sees a person begin to speak with an accent different to the one they had prior to having a stroke; one which makes them sound like they come from an entirely different country!

Since the first case was discovered in France in 1907, there have only been about 100 documented cases worldwide, according to the Cleveland Clinic. But certain cases have attracted the attention of the media and scientific researchers alike. One dates back to 1941 in Oslo, Norway, during a period of German occupation. 

What is the foreign accent syndrom? What exactly happens in the brain in such cases? How serious can the syndrome be? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!

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A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue.

First Broadcast: 10/1/2025

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