**Rob McElhenney Wows Fans with His Passionate ‘Yma o Hyd’ Rendition During National Eisteddfod**
Rob McElhenney, celebrated actor and co-owner of Wrexham AFC, has once again demonstrated his affection for Wales and its culture, this time by taking on the much-loved Welsh anthem ‘Yma o Hyd’. The star, better known to some as the creator of ‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’, embraced both the language and spirit of the nation during a televised appearance as part of the National Eisteddfod celebrations in Wrexham.
McElhenney, now a familiar presence in Welsh football thanks to the club’s Hollywood-backed resurgence, appeared on S4C this week. With guidance from Maxine Hughes, well-known to fans as the trusty translator from the ‘Welcome to Wrexham’ documentary series, he was put through his paces with various Welsh phrases tailored to the event, which continues until 9 August.
The highlight for many, however, was McElhenney’s spirited attempt at singing ‘Yma o Hyd’, a track that has grown in stature as a rallying cry for both the national football team and Wrexham supporters alike. The song, whose title means ‘Still Here’, is often sung to show resilience and pride, making it a fitting choice for a club owner who has become embedded in the community.
Unsurprisingly, the actor’s sincere efforts were met with widespread admiration on social media platforms. Many users commended his willingness to engage so deeply with local traditions, with one fan remarking, “Love this man for all he does for us. Absolutely incredible human.” Another went so far as to say, “What a guy. He shames me just by existing,” reflecting the depth of feeling McElhenney seems to inspire among the Welsh public.
Notably, support for McElhenney’s Welsh language foray extended beyond Wrexham’s own fanbase. Supporters of rival teams, including those from Swansea City, acknowledged the significance of his gesture. One Swansea fan, referencing the historic rivalry, commented, “I dislike Wrexham and have done since I became a Swans fan in 2001. Fair play to Rob McElhenney though for this. Impressive.” This cross-club appreciation highlights the unique way in which McElhenney has managed to endear himself to football fans across Wales.
The enthusiasm surrounding both Wrexham and its American owners is indicative of the remarkable journey the club has been on. Following three consecutive promotions, Wrexham now looks forward to a season back in the second tier – their highest league position since the early 1980s. The team’s upward momentum seems only to be matched by the positive impacts off the pitch, as shown by moments like this at the Eisteddfod.
The broader football world has also taken note, particularly as other clubs experiment with behind-the-scenes documentary series. Birmingham City, soon to be Wrexham’s opponents in the Championship, has recently produced its own documentary, and observers have drawn comparisons to Wrexham’s ongoing public engagement. One fan commented on social media, “A lot of mixed reviews for the Birmingham City documentary and Tom Brady, but maybe his team have yet to appreciate that as well as cash, it is important that owners invest in the community and culture.”
Indeed, McElhenney and fellow co-owner Ryan Reynolds’ approach appears to set a new standard for international club ownership, emphasising not just financial commitment but also genuine immersion in local life. Their frequent use of the Welsh language, participation in community events, and visible presence have collectively helped refashion perceptions of what overseas investment in British football can truly look like.
Much of McElhenney’s popularity rests on this blend of celebrity and relatable humility. Where many owners might opt to remain in the background, he has chosen to spotlight the unique characteristics of Wrexham – not least by lending his voice to a cherished anthem.
As the National Eisteddfod continues and Wrexham prepares for yet another momentous season, there appears to be a widespread consensus: Rob McElhenney’s affection for Wales isn’t just an act for the cameras, but a real and meaningful connection that continues to win hearts far beyond the football terraces.