Ethan Leigh Payne (born June 20, 1995), better known as Behzinga, is an English YouTuber, streamer, and influencer. He is a co-founder and member of the British YouTube group Sidemen and produces videos on gaming, football, comedy, and fitness.
Early Life and Education
Ethan Payne was born in London and raised almost entirely by his mother, Ruth, who had cancer during his childhood. His biological father left before he was born, and his stepfather, whom he believed was his actual father, left when he was thirteen due to drug addiction and debt. Ethan attended Marshalls Park School and later studied video games development at South Essex College.
Rise to Fame
Ethan registered the “Behzinga” YouTube channel on February 24, 2012, while he was still in school. The name “Behzinga” comes from one of his favorite television series, “The Big Bang Theory,” in which Sheldon Cooper often uses the catchphrase “Bazinga!” Ethan altered the spelling to create his unique username. His early content primarily featured video game commentaries on the Call of Duty and FIFA video game series. Over time, his style of content diversified to include football, comedy, and fitness videos.
Career Highlights
Ethan is a co-founder and member of the Sidemen, a British YouTube group formed in October 2013. The group produces online videos, most often consisting of challenges, sketches, and video-game commentary, as well as selling exclusive Sidemen merchandise. The Sidemen have founded multiple businesses, including a clothing brand under the Sidemen Clothing banner, a restaurant chain called Sides, and a cereal brand named Best Breakfasts.
In September 2019, Ethan was listed as the 31st most influential online creator in the United Kingdom by The Sunday Times. He has also provided commentary for events such as KSI vs. Logan Paul II for Sky Sports Box Office.
Personal Life
Ethan Payne and his girlfriend, Faith Louisa Kelly, have a child together, born in September 2022. On April 3, 2024, the couple announced via Instagram that they are engaged. Ethan is also an ambassador for the Teenage Cancer Trust and became the charity’s first content icon in September 2023.
Social Media Presence
Ethan Payne’s YouTube channel, , has over 4 million subscribers. He is also active on TikTok, where he has over 2.1 million followers, and on Instagram, where he shares updates about his life and career.
