Comedian Joe Lycett's fans question baby announcement

Joe Lycett surprised fans when he announced he’d become a dad on Friday, with many questioning the announcement.

The British comedian shared a photo of himself cradling a baby wearing a red jumper and blue hat inside his back winter jacket.

In the post, Joe thanked Birmingham Women’s Hospital for ‘masterfully’ welcoming a ‘little boy into the world, who happens to be my son’ and treating the tot's mum with exceptional ‘care and compassion’.

He added in his trademark cheeky style: ‘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*****g [Parenting Hell] 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.’

Although he received dozens of congratulations, several people wondered if the post was another of Joe’s jokes.

‘What does this say about your planking prowess that the announcement of the birth of your child isn’t trusted as canon. Congratulations on either parenthood or the apparent magnitude of your pranking skills,’ said one person.

A second penned, ‘I never know what’s real and what’s not when Lycett is involved,’ while a third commented: ‘I’m saying congratulations but I’m also thinking this is you and it could easily be a puppy/kitten/gearbox in that hat.’

Giving support to the post being legit, fellow comedians and podcast host Josh Widdicombe replied ‘Next Friday?’ while Rob Beckett quipped: ‘Let’s talk…’

The hospital's official account also replied, writing: '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.'

Joe hasn't said who the baby's mother is... but perhaps all will be revealed on the Parenting Hell podcast? Watch this space...