How can British people understand American slang, but vice-versa no?

[Mark]

Generally speaking, Americans cannot understand British slang. But most British people can understand American slang, quite well in fact. Does Hollywood have anything to do with this? We get very few British TV shows here, but in British TV, at least half the programs are American. And the movie market in UK is composed of at least 80% American movies. Then comes Yahoo, Microsoft, Facebook, etc...
Is our media and Hollywood responsible for the spread and understandability of our talk?

[JeckJeck]

You answered you own initial question and, yes.

[michael s]

Simple, British watch American TV/ Shows... Americans, well I'm sure they haven't been watching Eastenders and such. Also, in terms of London slang, how often do you see TV shows with people going "yo iiigh son wa'gwan brav" and such lol

[Bob B]

Like you said American shows, movie, and internet sites. American English is more widespread than British English so it is easier to pick up the slang. More than likely, the only time Americans hear British slang is watching Simon Cowell on American Idol lol.

[Arnold J]

understand those mad hatters who enslaved our gr8 nation? we got freedom frm them but very soon we will b free frm their stupid accent.

[Carol]

American are stupid?

[STEVE S]

I think you answered your own question.

[Michael]

Nope. Americans just don't have the time or interest. Brits are American wannabes.

[G. #2]

Movies, Hollywood.

Just like most Arabs can understand the Egyptian dialect, but not vice-vers

[Robert F]

British?BRITISH? You must be English.The reason is the English and Americans share a common brain cell which makes it impossible to understand yourself.Nyuk Nyuk! Simple.America is full of mother*$^%"()*and England is full of w*!$£&*.