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Beckham shows united front as he reveals: 'I do see myself as Jewish'

June 16, 2016 10:54
David Beckham with Kirsty Young.

BySarah Ebner, Sarah Ebner

3 min read

He is one of the most famous men on the planet, instantly recognisable almost everywhere. Now some might say that David Beckham has broadened his appeal even further: he told a rapt audience at London's JW3 that he sees himself as Jewish.

Mr Beckham, 41, made it clear that Judaism had been a part of his life, and paid tribute to his beloved Jewish grandfather, Joseph West. Asked "do you see yourself as Jewish in any way?" he replied: "My grandfather was Jewish, that was on my mother's side, so yes, I do see myself…"

The comment was interrupted by appreciative laughter but the former England captain continued: "I was never brought up Jewish, but like I said, my grandfather was, and every time we went to synagogue I was part of that."

Mr Beckham was known to be close to his grandfather, who died in 2009, aged 83. Mr West was the father of Mr Beckham's mother, Sandra, and was once described by the former Manchester United and Real Madred player as his "footballing inspiration". He accompanied his grandson when he received his OBE in 2003.