Peaky Blinders star Benjamin Zephaniah has died aged 65 following a short battle with a brain tumour.
A message was posted on his official Instagram account on Thursday (December 7) confirming the heartbreaking news about his passing. It read: “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 7th December 2023. Benjamin was diagnosed with a brain tumour eight weeks ago.
“Benamin’s wife was by his side throughout and with 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 huge body of poems, literature, music, television and radio, Benjamin leaves us with a joyful and fantastic legacy. Thank you for the love you have shown Professor Benjamin Zephaniah.
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Hundreds of Benjamin’s fans rushed to the announcement post to leave a comment and pay their respects the star. One follower penned: “This news really saddens me. I’m a big fan. I was lucky enough to meet him and tell him how much I liked his poetry and what he stood for. My heart goes out to his family and friends..” Another added: “Wow, shocking news! Literally messaged the King last night to send blessings powers and love. More light & let’s continue to share all great works produced”
(Image: BBC)
A third person wrote: “What heartbreaking news. Deepest condolences to the family. Benjamin was one of our greatest.” A fourth social media user penned: “Unbelievable talent. Remember he came to my school in north London, one of the worst performing at the times and hugely disadvantaged, and recited poetry. A man of hope. Thank you Benjamin.” Someone else said: “Oh no, that’s heartbreaking. We have lost a legend. Much love to the family x”
(Image: Publicity still)
Benjamin was born in the Handsworth area of Birmingham in 1958. His father was a Barbadian postman, and his mother was a Jamaican nurse. He published many collections of poetry as well as five novels and seven plays. In 1982, he released the album Rasta, which featured the Wailers’ first recording since the death of Bob Marley as well as a tribute to the political prisoner, later to become South African president, Nelson Mandela.
(Image: Getty Images)
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The album gained him international prestige and topped the Yugoslavian pop charts. It was because of this recording that he was introduced to Mandela, and in 1996, Mandela requested that Zephaniah host the president’s Two Nations Concert at the Royal Albert Hall, London. In 2008, he was ranked one of Britain’s top 50 post-war writers by The Times. As well as appearing on Peaky Blinders, Benjamin also appeared on The Bill and was a panellist on QI in 2020.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
