BOSTON — Former WWE superstar John Cena and comedian Amy Poehler are going viral after discussing why they often tell people they’re from Boston, even though neither actually grew up in the city.
During a recent episode of Poehler’s podcast, “Good Hang,” the two Massachusetts natives shared a relatable explanation familiar to many people from the Bay State.
“I grew up in West Newbury. We got to take Boston out of the equation,” Cena said.
Poehler quickly responded that most people from Massachusetts do the same thing.
“Well, we all say Boston no matter where we are,” Poehler said. “Anything around, no one cares.”
Cena grew up in West Newbury, while Poehler was raised in Burlington, both communities located outside Boston. The pair agreed that saying they’re from Boston is simply easier when talking to people who may not be familiar with smaller Massachusetts towns.
For many Bay Staters, identifying with Boston has become a shorthand way of explaining where they’re from, especially when traveling or speaking with people from outside New England.
The exchange has resonated with Massachusetts residents on social media, where many joked that they’ve been using the same explanation for years.
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