Ed Sheeran has reacted to a joke about him featured in the trailer for the upcoming comedy film Ali G: Who Iz I?
The trailer recently released online and includes a humorous reference to the British singer. The film will hit cinemas on October 23, marking the return of Sacha Baron Cohen’s famous character after years away.
In the trailer, Ali G says he has been away for 20 years and mentions major global events before adding Ed Sheeran’s name to the list.
The scene then shows a clip of Sheeran appearing on a red carpet.
Instead of taking offense, the Shape of You singer welcomed the joke. He commented on Instagram, saying it was an honour for his younger self to be mentioned in an Ali G film.
Sheeran also used the character’s famous misspelled version of “respect,” referencing the original Ali G style.
Ali G first appeared in the late 1990s on The 11 O’Clock Show. Sacha Baron Cohen created the character as a satirical figure who interviewed public personalities while staying in character.
The character gained worldwide popularity and later appeared in Madonna’s music video for the 2000 hit song Music.
The first Ali G movie, Ali G: In Da House, arrived in 2002. The upcoming film marks a new chapter for the character and also serves as Sacha Baron Cohen’s directorial debut.
Cohen later became known for successful projects including Borat and Bruno, before moving into more serious acting roles.
With Ed Sheeran’s positive reaction, the trailer has created more buzz ahead of the film’s release.