From Gamer to Inspiration
Ethan Leigh Payne, widely known by his online alias Behzinga, is a British YouTuber, entertainer, and fitness inspiration. Born on June 20, 1995, in London, England. Ethan has become one of the most recognizable figures on YouTube, admired not just for his humor and creativity but also for his resilience and transformation.
Early Life and YouTube Beginnings
Ethan grew up in London with a love for gaming and football. In 2012, as a teenager, he launched his YouTube channel Behzinga, initially posting FIFA and Call of Duty gameplay videos. His channel quickly gained attention for his comedic commentary and lighthearted style.
In 2013, Ethan joined forces with six other creators—KSI, Simon (Miniminter), Josh (Zerkaa), Tobi (TBJZL), Vik (Vikkstar123), and Harry (W2S)—to form the group known as the Sidemen. This collaboration became one of the most important turning points in his career, as the Sidemen rapidly grew into the UK’s most successful YouTube collective.
Rise with the Sidemen
Between 2014 and 2016, the Sidemen’s fame skyrocketed. They created a mix of gaming content, challenge videos, and comedy sketches that attracted millions of fans. Ethan quickly became known for his infectious laugh, cheeky banter, and larger-than-life personality.
While enjoying success with the Sidemen, Ethan was quietly facing personal battles. He struggled with his weight and mental health, often hiding his pain behind humor. Despite this, he remained a central figure in the Sidemen’s content and a fan favorite.
Personal Struggles and Transformation
By 2017, Ethan decided to take control of his life. Determined to improve his health, he began a fitness journey that would change him forever. Through exercise, diet, and discipline, he lost a significant amount of weight, transforming not only his body but also his mindset.
In 2019, he achieved a major milestone by completing his first marathon—an achievement that symbolized his growth and determination. Fans worldwide admired his dedication and saw him as proof that change was possible with hard work and persistence.
How to Be: Behzinga
Ethan’s story reached a wider audience in 2020, when he starred in the YouTube Originals documentary “How to Be: Behzinga.” The film explored his struggles with depression, self-doubt, and weight issues, while showcasing his fitness transformation and marathon training.
This documentary marked a turning point in how people viewed him. No longer just the funny Sidemen member, Ethan became an inspiration, openly sharing his vulnerabilities and showing fans that they weren’t alone in their struggles.
Continued Success and Influence
From 2021 to 2023, Ethan balanced his personal content with Sidemen projects. He began producing more vlogs, lifestyle videos, and fitness-related content, while continuing to entertain millions through Sidemen challenges, charity matches, and events.
In 2022, his improved fitness stood out in the Sidemen Charity Football Match, where fans noticed his speed, stamina, and confidence compared to earlier years. By this time, Ethan had become not just a YouTuber, but also a role model for resilience and perseverance.
In 2023, Ethan and the Sidemen celebrated over a decade of success, with their brand expanding into clothing, restaurants, and global recognition.
Ethan Payne Today (2025)
Now, in 2025, Ethan Payne is celebrated as:
- A key member of the Sidemen, helping run one of the most successful YouTube groups in the world.
- A fitness inspiration, admired for his weight loss and mental health journey.
- A role model, proving that challenges can be overcome with determination and courage.
- A content creator, still making millions laugh while also motivating them to improve their own lives.
Ethan’s journey from a teenager playing FIFA in his bedroom to an international entertainer and inspiration is nothing short of remarkable. His story is proof that with resilience, self-belief, and hard work, anyone can transform their life—no matter where they start.