Joe Lycett receives recognition in Pride List 2023 after viral stunt aimed at David Beckham

Joe Lycett has been named in a list of ‘50 LGBT+ change-makers’ compiled by The Independent. The list aims to commend members of the LGBTQ+ community by celebrating their ‘contribution to modern life’.

The Late Night Lycett presenter, 34, from Birmingham, took the number two spot on the coveted list, including Lionesses hero Beth Mead, and X-Factor star Rylan Clarke. Joe’s high ranking is largely due to his infamous stunt aimed at David Beckham.

The location for the 2022 World Cup was heavily scrutinised by fans due to issues with human rights, particularly affecting the LGBTQ+ community. Beckham signed a deal with Qatar to promote the location during the world cup.

Joe called out the former Manchester United winger, asking him to pull out of the contract by threatening to shred £10,000. When he received no response, the openly pansexual comedian shocked fans by shredding the money in a live broadcast, but later revealed it was counterfeit, and he donated the real £10,000 to LGBTQ+ charities.

He turned the stunt into a feature film entitled Joe Lycett vs Beckham: Got Your Back. The film polarised viewers and brought mass attention to the situation in Qatar. Just last month, the Brummie comedian was awarded a BAFTA for his efforts.

The Independent described Joe as “a perpetual conversation-starter”, and applauded him for using his “humour and comedic stance to tackle politics in an accessible way’”, while also highlighting “the mess of modern cultural discourse”.

Posting to his 1.3 million Instagram followers, the Travel Man presenter shared the news, and wrote in the caption: “Mummy is honoured to be number 2 on this year’s @the.independent pride list alongside some other wronguns. Happy Pride Month everyone 😊🏳️‍🌈”.

The Independent revealed Joe gave them a somewhat different reaction to making the list, reportedly telling the publication: “I am now straight, please leave me alone.”