The Real King's Speech - King George VI - September 3, 1939 

I never before realized just how faithful Colin Firth's portrayal was to the real King George VI.

His speech impediment actually helped. He didn't speak like Mussolini, or Hitler (with their pulsating aggression), but spoke in a careful and moderated way. This always has more strength than any loud, violent outbursts can ever be.

Forget for a moment he's a king. Imagine for a moment he's a human being with a task that seems beyond his reach. Think for a moment how agonizing it would be, that your personal task, the one thing you must do for your people, is at the mercy of your greatest weakness. And realize that almost no one thinks you capable to live up to the challenge. That is the universal tale of heroism: the hero manages to do what must be done, at the moment it is needed most. For this man, it was something as simple as a speech. It doesn't diminish the accomplishment.

As a stutterer, I feel incredibly empathetic to his delivering of this speech. I actually have the exact same blocks that he has. As he was speaking, I imagined I was saying the words and I stopped in the exact same spots he did, anticipating I couldn't say words like "peoples" and "purpose". His techniques to pause and say "a-" before a word etc. are all excellent, very good execution. His speech therapist was amazing.

Lionel, "You still stammered on the W.... King George VI, "I had to throw in a few so they knew it was me."

to all those people who thought he was lame or whatever does not know the history of this man. he was a strong man when everyone said he was weak, made this speech beautifully, when he had a stutter, and became the leader that country needed at that time.

You can hear him picking up momentum and confidence as the speech progresses. Bravo, Your Majesty.

Thank god it was this man on the throne, not his brother. RIP Your Majesty, Your daughter has done you proud. A Great man. A Great King.

i cannot imagine how terrified he was. having a stutter , and being shy and having to be thrown into all this and he handled it with such dignity and courage and compassion . you can see where the queen gets it

His brother was a weak, poor excuse for a man, let alone a King. George VI represented the strength and fortitude of the British. He was a remarkable man, husband, father and King. RIP

Before I knew the story about his impediment, his speech to me seemed to sound calm, paced and dignified. It's amazing that it came off at all, the fact that it was so well done and accepted is even more impressive.

i think people are forgetting what the point of this speech is. yes, it's the beginning of world war II, but this was a monumental moment for him, as it was his first important speech without uttering his stutter that he had struggled with.

It's eerie how well Colin Firth re-created this in "The King's Speech".

Colin Firth got his voice down to the T.

I'm here again, on 8th September 2022, appreciating Georve VI not only for his achievements, but to celebrate the reign amd accomplishments of his wonerfully remarkable daughter, Elizabeth II. She was the opitomy of class, compassion, unification, and committed herself to her people with such grace and poise in the most tragic of circumstances.. She had a remarkable way of seeming stoic yet sympathetical and warm at the same time. I'm sure George VI would be very proud of his predecessor and daughter. God Bless The Queen. 🙏🕊🤍

At the height of the Blitz, when London was being bombed to hell, Churchill sent a message to the Queen suggesting that her two daughters be sent to Canada to avoid the danger. The Queen sent a message back which read simply : "The children won't go without me. I won't leave without the King. And the King will NEVER leave." Monarchs are different to politicians.

It astonishing that there are those who are looked down upon all their lives, scorned and belittled as George was, but when the world needs them, they rise to the occasion. This is a mark of the nobility of the human spirit and the sign of genuine greatness.

It is impossible to not admire King George VI for the incredible burdens he shouldered to lead his nation and his people in the horrors of World War 2 even as the quiet and gentle man he was struggled to find that which would leave him a fondly remembered and dearly loved symbol of Britain and all it stood for. He loved his nation, he loved his people, and he fervently supported the soldiers and sailors and airmen of the military and the ministers who governed in his name. Everything I have read about him tells me that George VI was a good man, thrust into an incredible role who gave it his all and whose legacy remains a positive one in British history.

very good Berty!

Here is the speech : In this grave hour, perhaps the most fateful in our history, I send to every household of my peoples, both at home and overseas, this message, spoken with the same depth of feeling for each one of you as if I were able to cross your threshold and speak to you myself. For the second time in the lives of most of us, we are at war. Over and over again, we have tried to find a peaceful way out of the differences between ourselves and those who are now our enemies; but it has been in vain. We have been forced into a conflict, for we are called, with our allies, to meet the challenge of a principle which, if it were to prevail, would be fatal to any civilized order in the world. It is a principle which permits a state, in the selfish pursuit of power, to disregard its treaties and its solemn pledges, which sanctions the use of force or threat of force against the sovereignty and independence of other states. Such a principle, stripped of all disguise, is surely the mere primitive doctrine that might is right, and if this principle were established through the world, the freedom of our own country and of the whole British Commonwealth of nations would be in danger. But far more than this, the peoples of the world would be kept in bondage of fear, and all hopes of settled peace and of the security, of justice and liberty, among nations, would be ended. This is the ultimate issue which confronts us. For the sake of all that we ourselves hold dear, and of the world order and peace, it is unthinkable that we should refuse to meet the challenge. It is to this high purpose that I now call my people at home, and my peoples across the seas, who will make our cause their own. I ask them to stand calm and firm and united in this time of trial. The task will be hard. There may be dark days ahead, and war can no longer be confined to the battlefield, but we can only do the right as we see the right, and reverently commit our cause to God. If one and all we keep resolutely faithful to it, ready for whatever service or sacrifice it may demand, then with God's help, we shall prevail. May He bless and keep us all

Thank goodness Edward abdicated. George was a great wartime king.

He was a very brave man to confront his responsibilities when his brother didn't. He didn't want to be king, but he knew his country needed him.

There are no words to describe how much I admire King George VI, and his daughter Queen Elizabeth II. As a Swiss citizen, I stand in awe of the dedication they have shown to their nation. It is at once an honour and a great sacrifice. And, despite the unsavoriness surrounding Lady Diana The People's Princess and the wrong that was done to her, I also harbor great fondness for His Majesty King Charles III. Long live the King. Honi soit qui mal y pense.

I am literally left speechless and amazed at this speech. To think that this man, this king, had a stutter. You would not have known at all. He gave great solace and inspiration to his people in their time of need, and I suspect that he will continue to give his people hope as the times go on. He will forever be an inspiration. What a brilliant speech, from a brilliant king.

Real King George VI looks like his brother from the movie.

Sharing his birthday. Being from tje commonwealth, Australia, that is... i feel honoured to know of his humility. Monarchy may not be greatly accepted, i myself find i am one them, no one person's should covet so much power. Yet, the verbosity of George the VI's story and personality, remind me that I should be proud of my homeland. I am Australian, with an indigenous father... i never met him but that matters not. Some peoples of history deserve to carved in stone. George the VI is one of them. Served in the call of duty among men, refused to scuttle from his home when threatened by vile fiends. Take up sword and shield, defend ones own honour, through that they stay true to one's self... A ciggarette burns in your honour Bertie, may another follow the grand cast of your shadow one day. From my burnt yellow and red land, i love you all. Humility in power is true godliness. Amen

my grams remembers this a day she's 96.

King George exemplifies why I prefer the British system of constitutional monarchy to a Presidential system. When George made this speech, when he worked for years to get over his stammer, when he made countless speeches throughout the war to the nation, he wasn't trying to score political points. He wasn't trying to curry favour to help him win the next election. He was doing his duty to his people, to be a unifying symbol around which to rally. He wasn't even supposed to be King, but he still knew his duty because he had been raised to it from birth. We have a democracy in this country, and according to Democracy index it is a freer and more democratic one than the American system. The monarchy does not make our laws. The monarchy is there to unify where there are no other points of contact. If you took your typical Conservative and Labour voter and asked them to discuss politics, there is every likelihood that they would find nothing to agree on. Ask them their opinion on the Queen however, and chances are that both would agree she does a great job and is a great servant to this country. Our head of state is not a divisive figure. Our head of state is not out to score points and win elections. Our head of state is there to unite and inspire people. When I look at Presidents and Presidential candidates in other countries, all I see is arguing, mud-slinging, politicking and point scoring. That's not what the Head of State is for; that belongs in the legislature. A head of state should not alienate half their people. Anyway, rant over. Long Live the Queen.

The use of Beethoven’s 7th in the movie was simply brilliant! There couldn’t have been a more perfect and powerful piece.

If i'am, as French man, a republican man, i have a great consideration to this King who is for me one of my examples of courage, determination. He is for me one of the major men of the XXth century. All my respects to you King George. You were a great king for a great people.

I’m amazed by all the positive comments instead of cutting him to ribbons. Great speech delivered by a man trying his best and succeeding! Bravo.

As an American we have to admire the stoicism of the British King and even Neville Chamberlain when war was thrust upon them. The British people did NOT want war in 1939. The British had lost nearly one million men in the First World War. They were hit hard economically by Great Depression too. Yet, the British took up the task and endured six years of tremendous hardships and sacrifices. These British were brave good people fighting a wicked murderous monstrous and vile regime.

This man had the balls to carry his nation through a wartime

To those who write negative comments, I can only say that you are blinded by modern standards and "progressive" and "politically correct" ways of thinking. The world, and the beliefs were so different even in the early decades of the 20th Century. The notion of the British Empire as being nefarious and wrong, if to be taken as a truth, has to be thought of in the context of, and that, almost every nation on earth had, even the USA, and since the 1930s, the USA more so, has sought dominion over other countries for political/religious/economical propagation and/or subjugation. The world back then seems to us now, a different place. We can, of course, only move forward, but in many ways, we should never forget what we have lost.

I’m blown away. The King’s Speech is one of my favourite movies and I’ve watched it so many times. This is the first time that I’ve listened to the real deal and I’m impressed at how accurate Colin Firth’s representation of the speech was! Such a talented actor. Such an inspirational movie. Thanks for the upload. ❤️

I'm an American. I have The King's Speech on my Netflix queue. I'm fascinated how this man overcame his stuttering and became the King his people and the world needed during World War II. Congratulations on the wonderful speech your majesty!

The Queen watched her father’s fortitude and resilience despite his speech impediment. She learned from him that perseverance and tenacity were essential qualities. She adored her father and she inherited many of his good qualities. I think for many who’ve heard this speech who have stutters, they can appreciate how difficult it must have been for him to need to speak to his people when he had never had a voice. The touching thing is that he shouldered a duty he never wanted to because of his idiot brother, and with that he had to shoulder being the king who couldn’t speak, and learned to, for the sake of his duty.

This is truely inspiring. The speech itself and now also knowing the struggle he went through. One can only hope that we can all rise to the occasion as the King did when he was needed.

God damn. Colin Firth was absolutely bang on with his rendition of this speech

A great man. I stutter but when you hear a speech like that you give honour to the man. God bless the monarchy

What an amazing piece of history. I'm grateful for the writers of The King's Speech for bringing this important story to us again. Shows how much dilgence and persistence it takes to overcome any obstacle.

I had read about George VI and his battle with combating his stuttering plus the fact that he was in no way prepared to become King. I was so happy when "The King's Speech" came out; it was about time Edward VIII was shown to be a selfish, idiot and George VI was given credit for being the truly courageous man he was.

King George VI always looks so kind in all the pictures and videos I’ve seen of him. He exuded kindness it seems.

putting aside as an Irishman and an Australian what I think about royalty, the brits etc etc. I have to admit even if the movie was hyped up the fact that this man with a country on his shoulders was able to perform when he was expected to with a stutter is pretty heart warming and awesome. he must have been in pieces worrying about it

Where's Beethoven's 7th Symphony?

A man never trained to be a king or a public speaker, who had to keep the morale of his country up during the biggest war of the 20th century. No wonder he died soon after.

I saw the movie years ago. This real version you can hear him focusing & struggling; but he delivered. He delivered with a force of will, empathy & a quiet strength.

As someone with extreme stress about public speaking and anxiety, this man is one of my idols, he will be remembered forever

That is one of the best speeches in history and the fact that speaking was a weakness for him shows how powerfully almighty God blessed him.

George VI was also a handsome man. He was custom built to look like a King - and to be a King.

Being from rural New Brunswick so many of the older folks speak of how important this speach was to the morale of the wartime Commonwealth

What a wonderful King he was. I can remember him well, and I was very sad when he passed away to early only 56.

I am thankful I don't have a stammer, but public speaking is incredibly nerve-racking and difficult for me. His late Majesty is an inspiration to me even though my problem is just nervousness

God Save The King.

i just saw the film and had to come and hear this, what a wonderful king

Amazing speech! And I have to say that Colin Firth more than earned that Oscar! Strictly based on the speech, he nailed it! I have no doubt that if I searched for mannerisms and expressions of the king, it would make me think of Colin. Truly excellent.

I had minor speech impairment. It got worst when Im speaking suddenly to a large crowd. I always try to speak slowly though and I did fairly good with public speaking. Recently during my thesis presentation, everyone who had stayed had seen that I practiced a lot on the stage with mic and shaking hands but later they told me I did good (huge sigh of relief). Its a bit painful for me when I watch "The King's Speech" and saw the struggles. Colin Firth is truly inspirational as the king himself.

Brave man, not easy at all with his condition. Bloody well done to say the least.

A hero King, George VI. I’m proud to be named George after him.

Our Hero as well as Our King 🇬🇧 He fought against his weaknesses as we fought against ours. United together under the universal hardships of our unyielding power of the enemies now have proven to be diminished by the strength in our hearts and our unity to keep fighting beyond that which we believed would overwhelm us

Where is Beethoven?

The impact of this speech simply cannot be understated, and the fact that it was delivered by a man that so gravely struggled with matters of anxiety and public speaking makes it all the more inspirational.

Beautiful. When comparing to the movie, and seeing how he faced and overcame his fear is truly inspirational.

Very moving speech. Brilliant. Pauses do add presence and effect......indeed!

A great man, a great King.

George VI ended up being one of the strongest in his family. He never wanted to be king and was forced into it, yet he never complained or showed anything other than devotion and loyalty to his people. He was the personification of the stiff upper lip that was encouraged during the war. He gave his people (and even foreigners) hope and inspiration to keep fighting. They don’t make them like George anymore, that’s for sure.

His real name was Albert and I truly believe that his Great Grandfather, Prince Albert himself, would be so proud.

The story of the King's Speech was truly inspiring sometimes fate gives us the right people at the right time history. Long Live King George VI.

As a US citizen I thank Britain for being an ally. Will defend Britain for being an ally to the end. So true with the events now.

RIP to our most beloved King-Emperor from your Dominion of Canada. Thank you for your many services on the throne and to your daughter, Her Majesty the Queen.

Listening to his speech makes listeners feel assured and calm that everything will be okay in the 'darkest' of times. His credibility is how he showed the people that he could triumph over something very personal to him, and likewise British people would overcome Hitler. George's life story still inspires today.

As one who had to deal with a speech impediment early as a child, I can fully appreciate this man and his struggle. England's best king ever in history!

King George has always fascinated me. I knew of his problem. And I knew he lead Britian, bravely, through their darkest hours. It was good fortune he was king instead of Edward. He was devoted to his responsibility, and loved his country. The man was a great hero. He served as an amazing example to every Englishman to face the task before them.

I looked for this after watching "the king's speech" - awe-inspiring stuff..

Came here after watching the movue The King's Speech. Beautiful movie. Colin Firth is amazing.

George was a great man and he did a good job, just so sad he died fairly young. Respect and RIP George.

Among other things, King George the 6th was strikingly handsome. Rest In Peace to a great leader. So sad he passed so young. He was there when his country needed him.

This was a man who had a nanny who abused him, parents who were emotionally distant, a brother who died of epilepsy out of view. For this man, it wasn’t just one event, but a culmination of horrible misfortune that gave birth to his negative self-view and near crippling stammer. It's amazing how a man who knew so much suffering ended up being such an inspirational leader.

At 1:50 the girl next to the queen is Elizabeth (the current Queen of England) For those who wish to know.

i have a speech impediment and this and the movie is one of the most inspiring things i have ever seen

Colin Firth did an amazing job on the movie. Totally deserved the Best Actor Award. And, of course, the movie deserved it's Best Picture Award.

I watched this immediately after finally watching The King's Speech. I'm amazed at how well Colin Firth captured the persona of King George. This is a great speech from a great man, and its nice to know what he was done justice in the film.

A truly brave man and courageous leader. You are not and never will be forgotten.

"Bertie had more bottle than all his brothers put together!" - HM George V. Not sure he actually said this but it sounds appropriate, doesn't it?

Yesterday i saw movie the King's speech and that brings me yere. i just want say that it is not only fantastic movie but it is also very inspirational movie for those who want to speak fluently in public without pausing. Colin firth, Geoffrey rush and helena carter has done splendid acting in this movie i become fan of this three actor's and I'll watch more movie of this actors. one more thing i want to add here that I am indian and i am learning english language (and i love british accent) I want to speak english fluently without pausing in public, and I will be able to do this soon.

I don’t think I’ve ever felt so much respect for a man.

Bertie = Man of Steel

So much credit is due to Lionel Logue, his therapist. What an incredible friendship they developed with admiration for one another. I can't get enugh of the movie or the specials the Smithsonian Channel has presented regarding the family and the manarchy. Such a beautiful family of King George VI and Queen Mother.

My grandfather was eight when this was broadcasted. It's so wonderful to hear of this historic moment from him. :-) God bless the UK (and U.S. ;-D)

George sounds so majestic and dignified.

I am so glad they finally got permission to make the film. George VI faced a burden I imagine no other stutterer has faced in recent history.

George VI is an inspiration. I can hardly believe that I can hear his original speech, knowing how much trouble he may have had with it. I have a speech impediment myself (b, t, d, and curiously s) that makes me all the more sympathetic to this man who was not only a GIANT among 20th century figures, but also knew something of the impediments that hampered the common man. George VI was a hero and an inspiration, but he also gave us Elizabeth II, who has made not one false step in her life of service (and made some Americans wonder if we truly were right back in 1776, lol), so I would not feel any reluctance in naming Great Britain's King George VI as the MOST important monarch of the 20th century. And I didn't even mention all the wonderful things he did himself.

You did us proud your Majesty

0.45 "For the second time we are at war". So sadly true. At the end of WWI, Ferdinand Foch said: "This is not peace. It is an armistice for twenty years!"

I heard no stutter...very nice

The movie changed things around for dramatic purposes. Logue began working with Prince Albert in the mid-late 20's. By the time he became King George VI, he long overcame his stammer in public speaking by using pauses and timing, as taught by Logue years before. But, as in the movie, he always had Logue by his side when making a an address, Mostly out of friendship, but Logue also provided the confidence the King needed.

You can definitely hear the stutter. His stutter was what made him so endearing. He never sounded big headed or too confident, he was very down to earth

i tip my hat to you, *colin firth,* for your incredible and honorable recreation of the king's speech and personality. incredibly well done

This was my mother's 18th birthday. Think yourselves very lucky today that most of you will not have had that experience on your 18th.... And hopefully never will.

One of the last times a nation stopped and listened. If the equivalent happened today people would either be watching TOWIE or fiddling with their smart phones. Much respect to this generation.