Benny Blanco reflects on being an 'average Joe' alongside Ed Sheeran

Musical collaborators Ed Sheeran and Benny Blanco have shared a candid reflection on their unlikely rise to global stardom, attributing their success to being "normal dudes" in an industry often dominated by traditional archetypes.

During an appearance on the Friends Keep Secrets podcast on Tuesday, the 35-year-old English singer and the American producer discussed how they represent the "average Joe" rather than the stereotypical "popular kid in school."

Blanco suggested that their presence in the charts offers a sense of possibility to others who do not fit the conventional mould of a celebrity. "I feel like both, especially me... you give the normal guy hope," Blanco remarked to Sheeran.

The conversation, which included co-hosts Lil Dicky and Kristin Batalucco, touched upon the contrast between relatable artists and those with effortless physical appeal.

Sheeran acknowledged the presence of stars who fit the traditional mould of high-school popularity, noting: "There's definitely the popular kid in school who's super, super attractive."

Blanco contrasted their own public images with figures like Jacob Elordi, whom he described as being able to do "crazy stuff" that sets them apart from the average person.

Reflecting on Sheeran’s enduring appeal, Blanco previously noted that the singer’s strength lies in his humility and use of everyday language.

"The thing that makes him so good — and I'm in a similar spot — we're just kind of like the average Joe that shouldn't have really made it, but somehow we did," he stated.

He added that this specific "humility and that insecurity" is precisely what makes their work so relatable to a global audience.