‘Peaky Blinders’ Actor Benjamin Zephaniah Dead at 65
Benjamin Zephaniah the British writer and dub poet poses for a portrait in the grounds of Peterborough Cathedral on September 13th 2021 in Cambridgeshire (Photo by Tom Jenkins/Getty Images)
Benjamin Zephaniah, a profound poet and actor who appeared on the hit series Peaky Blinders, has died. He was 65.
His family announced the sad news through his official Instagram account on Dec. 7, revealing that his passing came shortly after being diagnosed with a brain tumor. It's unclear at this time how the condition presented itself or affected Zephaniah, as well as whether or not the growth was cancerous.
In a text graphic uploaded to Zephaniah's feed, his family confirmed that the actor passed earlier the same day. It's also unclear if he passed at home or in the hospital.
“It is with great sadness and regret that we announce the death of our beloved Husband, Son and Brother in the early hours of this morning the 7th December 2023," they wrote. "Benjamin was diagnosed with a brain tumor 8 weeks ago.”
The statement continued, “Benjamin’s wife was by his side throughout and was with him when he passed. We shared him with the world and we know many will be shocked and saddened by this news. Benjamin was a true pioneer and innovator, he gave the world so much. Through an amazing career including a high body of poems, literature, music, television and radio, Benjamin leaves us with a joyful and fantastic legacy."
They signed off, thanking everyone "for the love you have shown Professor Benjamin Zephaniah."
Earlier this year, Deadline revealed that his memoir, Life and The Life And Rhymes of Benjamin Zephaniah, was being developed for television. Zephaniah left school at the age of 13 unable to read or write, eventually teaching himself to do both on a typewriter.
His unique style of poetry and writing led to his voice becoming an influential part of Black politics and identity, with the author even meeting with Nelson Mandela.
In addition to the BBC series, Zephaniah could be seen in shows like The Bill and The Comic Strip.
Peaky Blinders star Cillian Murphy issued a statement following the news, writing, “Benjamin was a truly gifted and beautiful human being — a generational poet, writer, musician and activist. A proud Brummie and a Peaky Blinder. I’m so saddened by this news. RIP.”
