Joe Lycett sparks frenzy as he shares baby news days after revealing secret girlfriend

By Leah Stanfield, Assistant Showbiz Editor

Joe Lycett announced he has become a father. (Image: Instagram)

Joe Lycett has announced the arrival of his son in a touching Instagram post, where he revealed he is "loving" being a dad.

The comedian took to social media to express his gratitude, saying: "An appreciation post from me for the extraordinary @bham_womens hospital.

"My first encounter with them was years ago when they looked after a pal of mine through surgery, and then most recently when they masterfully welcomed a little boy into the world, who happens to be my son.

"The care and compassion his mum and he received was exceptional; from the antenatal classes, incredible midwives, consultants, doctors, nurses and the ongoing care in the community. We also loved their baked potatoes. Birmingham is so lucky to have them and I will be forever grateful for everything they've done.

"I am LOVING being a dad but sadly I think this now means I can't get out of going on Rob and Josh's f**king podcast. We will not be taking any press requests about this as we have already sold the rights to the first family picture to Autotrader."

Joe Lycett said he is "loving" being a dad. (Image: Instagram)

Alongside his post, Joe shared an adorable photo of himself cradling his newborn outside, reports the Mirror.

An outpouring of congratulations flooded in from friends and fans alike in the comments section. Drag queen Bimini Bon Boulash chimed in with: "Amazing."

Another fan gushed: "Omg Mummy's actually a mummy! Congrats darlin."

The team at Birmingham Women's Hospital also left a heartfelt message, saying: "Massive congratulations again to you all. We're so proud to have supported you on this incredible life-changing milestone. We wish you all the best and lots of gorgeous cuddles for the future."

Judi Love expressed her joy by commenting "Congratulations," while Charley Marlow was enthusiastic with "Omg congratulations, hope you're all doing well xxx."

Broadcaster Kate Thornton shared heartfelt emotions: "Congratulations! Hard to believe how enormous your love for one so little can be isn't it. Much love to you and your family."

Despite the well-wishes, some of Joe's followers couldn't help but question the sincerity of the post, given his reputation as a prankster.

One sceptical fan posted: "I'm just worried this will come out as him cuddling a bunch of rhubarb in a hat tbh," while another remarked playfully: "I can't tell if this is satire but I'm here for it either way."

Adding to the humorous speculation, another fan said: "I'm saying congratulations but Im also thinking this is you and it could easily be a puppy/kitten/gearbox in that hat."

Delving into his private life, Joe, who identifies as pansexual, candidly spoke on Bimini Bon Boulash's podcast The Pieces earlier in the week. He revealed: "So I've got Winston the cat, and my partner Denise. And, um, she's not called Denise, but I don't talk about her, because she has a job that she can't be in the public eye. I call her Denise because she hates the name Denise, so, uh, I live with Denise."