Renowned British Poet and Actor Benjamin Zephaniah Dies at 65

Overview

• British poet, writer, and actor Benjamin Zephaniah has died at the age of 65, eight weeks after being diagnosed with a brain tumor.
• Zephaniah was known for his poetry addressing social and political issues, including racism, the British legal system, and the climate crisis.
• He was a prominent figure in the UK's literary scene, with his work being taught in classrooms across the country.
• Zephaniah was also known for his acting, having a recurring role as the character Jeremiah Jesus in the hit show 'Peaky Blinders'.
• In 2003, he rejected an OBE due to its association with the British Empire and its history of slavery.