This inquiry explored whether and how English as a foreign language (EFL) learners` perceptions towards their own and others' accent is liable to affect their second language (L2) willingness to communicate (WTC). The content analysis of interviews with 20 EFL learners displayed that L2 WTC was amenable to their hegemonic attitudes towards native English accents. As many as four recurring themes arose from the interviews which displayed how perceived accent strength can affect L2 WTC. These include: Accent-related stigmas, accent-based disruptiveness, aspiration for showing off one's accent, and self-perceived communicative competence and self-confidence. The article concludes by debating the implications of the findings and sketching avenues for future research.