Joe Lycett finds himself seated in a pub, with a full pint before him that remains untouched. “Since becoming a father, my drinking has significantly decreased,” he reflects. “Kids are not considerate of hangovers or fatigue.” His son, nearly two years old, has prompted Lycett to make some significant lifestyle changes. “I’ve started going to bed when he does, which is around seven o’clock,” he shares. “There have been nights when I simply think, ‘That’s it for me.’”
However, this new routine is about to be disrupted with the launch of his upcoming television show, “Live from the Lycett Arms.” This program will not only air live three hours past his new bedtime but will also immerse him in the atmosphere of a pub. The Lycett Arms builds on the foundation of his previous live show, “Late Night Lycett,” but with a more ambitious concept. This time, Lycett will host while simultaneously managing a fully operational pub, seemingly designed to invite unexpected chaos—more on that later. For now, he faces a couple of significant concerns.
Firstly, despite our conversation taking place just weeks before the premiere, the pub is still under construction. “It isn’t fully completed yet, but I’ve visited the site,” he explains. “It will be located in trendy East London, and that’s about all I can reveal, as I don’t know the exact address.” Nevertheless, he assures that the final establishment will unmistakably resemble a pub. “There will be an outdoor space, a cellar, a bar, a back room, a saloon bar, a pool table, darts, and karaoke. It should be a lot of fun. If it’s not enjoyable, then why bother?”
However, a more pressing matter looms: as the licensed operator of the Lycett Arms, he must pass an essential exam to receive a Level 2 Award for Personal Licence Holders, a certification he has yet to obtain. “I attempted the test but did not succeed,” he admits. “I didn’t prepare adequately, which is a problem. I needed around 70% to pass and ended up with something like 38%. I tried to rely on common sense, but apparently, I lack that.”
In an effort to assist him, I inquire if he knows the four key licensing objectives outlined in section four of the Licensing Act 2003. Lycett’s expression shifts to one of panic. “Safe … safety … a safe drinking environment to create … pleasant places for people to … hang out?” he stammers.
Unfortunately, that is not the correct answer. The actual objectives are: “Prevention of crime and disorder. Public safety. Protection of children from harm. Prevention of public nuisance.”
“Yes, that’s what I meant, isn’t it?” he retorts.
“Well, I think I paraphrased that. I believe that’s the reason I didn’t obtain the license; I essentially paraphrased it correctly.”
After assuring me that the show will proceed, with someone stepping in as the licensee if his performance continues to falter, Lycett excitedly shares his anticipation for the show’s debut. “So, it’s my pub,” he states. “But from the very first week, there will be a celebrity manager doing a trial shift. My aunts will be manning the bar, and we will host a weekly quiz with different regulars. I’m absolutely open to having quirky and interesting celebrities drop by, grab a drink, and leave. I want it to be a constant source of surprise and fun.”
It’s also an exciting opportunity for him to be the face of late-night live television, a format that is becoming increasingly rare. “I’m quite surprised they decided to commission it, as there isn’t much new content being approved these days,” he remarks. “Television is in a downward spiral—I’m sure you’ve noticed.”
So, could managing a pub serve as a backup career if his television work were to decline? “Well, the hospitality industry is struggling too,” he notes. “Like many sectors, everything seems to be in a bit of a mess, doesn’t it? Should I consider writing for the Guardian? Is that thriving?”
Despite this uncertainty, the idea of establishing the Lycett Arms as a permanent venue is appealing to him. “Many people think they could easily open a pub or restaurant, but it’s extremely challenging,” he explains. “Nevertheless, I like the concept. It has a certain allure—’Let’s have a lock-in at my place.’ But in reality, it involves managing invoices and handling VAT.”
This year is pivotal for Lycett, as he not only launches “Live from the Lycett Arms,” but also makes his return to stand-up comedy after a brief hiatus. His excitement for this development is palpable. “I’m going on tour next year, but since last October, I’ve aimed to perform at least one gig per week,” he shares. “It took me several months to regain my footing. I still don’t feel entirely confident, but I’m genuinely enjoying being on stage, and I’m no longer anxious about it, as I was after returning from paternity leave.”
Since his last tour, Lycett’s popularity has surged, positioning him as a beloved figure that some might even consider a national treasure.
“I would contest that,” he retorts.
For the sake of my inquiry, I plead with him to agree.
“Fine, alright, I’m a national treasure,” he concedes, rolling his eyes.
With his increased visibility, does he now feel a heightened sense of responsibility regarding the subjects he addresses? “Not really,” he responds. “If I were to alter my stage persona to cater to what I think people expect from me, I would lose my mind. When you receive critiques, and the reviewer doesn’t appreciate your work, there’s a temptation to create a show that…”
