James Corden’s epic prank of David Beckham is tough to watch and impossible to not crack up at.
On Monday, the CBS “Late Late Show” host showed a video of a killer practical joke he played on his buddy Beckham, who in the footage was presented with an awful-looking fake statue meant to permanently adorn the outside of Dignity Health Sports Park, which is where L.A. Galaxy play.
In addition, the Galaxy legend had to sit through a preview of a less-than flattering faux highlight reel, and mingle with some trying fans. Oh, they were fakes too — Corden employed all actors for this all-star setup.
Through it all — or at least, through it most — Beckham remained perfectly polite. Some American pro athletes can certainly learn a thing or two about decorum here.
Here’s the background: Beckham, a Manchester United icon, came to the states as a member of the Los Angeles Galaxy. There, he became one of the most successful and celebrated Major League Soccer (MLS) players in history. As a tribute, the Galaxy commissioned a full-body bronze statue in his likeness. Corden’s version was neither a tribute nor a likeness.
Watch the video above. Yes, you may do so through very slightly spread fingers if you must.