Mark Wahlberg Tests Boston Credentials on 'Kimmel'

The actor identifies fellow Bostonians in a lineup challenge.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 1:39pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a crumpled, glittering red sequin fabric, capturing the glamour and star power associated with Boston-born celebrities.Mark Wahlberg's Boston bona fides shine through in a 'Kimmel' skit that celebrates the city's distinct cultural identity.Boston Today

During an appearance on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!', actor Mark Wahlberg showcased his Boston bona fides by participating in a skit where he had to pick out fellow Bostonians from a lineup without hearing them speak. Wahlberg, who is from Boston, was able to correctly identify several locals based on their mannerisms and responses to his Boston-centric questions.

Why it matters

Wahlberg's ability to identify other Bostonians highlights the distinct cultural identity and quirks associated with being from the city. The skit taps into the pride many Bostonians feel about their regional identity and accent, which can be a source of both humor and contention.

The details

In the skit, Wahlberg asked the lineup participants questions about Boston-specific experiences like getting drunk on duck boats, preferring white clam chowder, and getting into fights with relatives. He was able to correctly identify the Bostonians in the group based on their responses, with one contestant revealing he was from Gloucester and another from East Boston. For their correct answers, the Bostonians received Boston-themed prizes like clams and Wahlburgers coupons.

  • The skit aired on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' on Monday, April 14, 2026.

The players

Mark Wahlberg

An actor from Boston who appeared on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' to showcase his ability to identify fellow Bostonians.

Matt Damon

Wahlberg's co-star in 'The Departed', who also hails from Boston.

Dave

A contestant from Gloucester, Massachusetts who correctly answered that he had gotten drunk on a duck boat.

PJ

A contestant from East Boston who was identified as a Bostonian for wearing a Dunkin' outfit and preferring white clam chowder.

Taylor

A contestant from Beverly, Massachusetts who was identified as a Bostonian for her Boston-specific mannerisms and experiences.

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What they’re saying

“He and I were the only ones actually from Boston, but we were kind of looking at each other like, 'I think people are going to think that we have the fake Boston accents,' and we're going to stick out like a sore thumb.”

— Mark Wahlberg, Actor

“I told ya, he's from Gloucester.”

— Mark Wahlberg, Actor

The takeaway

Wahlberg's ability to identify fellow Bostonians in the skit highlights the distinct cultural identity and quirks associated with being from the city. The segment taps into the pride many Bostonians feel about their regional identity and accent, which can be a source of both humor and contention.