Peaky Blinders Star Benjamin Zephaniah Dead At 65

Benjamin Zephaniah, the British writer and actor known for shows like "Peaky Blinders," died in the early hours of Thursday morning at the age of 65. His family confirmed the news on his Instagram account, revealing that he was diagnosed with a brain tumor eight weeks ago.

"Benjamin's wife was by his side throughout and was with him when he passed," the statement added. "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."

Television viewers might associate Zephaniah with playing Jeremiah Jesus on "Peaky Blinders," a role he made his own from 2013 until 2022. However, he was just as memorable off the screen as his career saw him pursue several vocations.

Benjamin Zephaniah's acting work mainly consisted of appearances on popular British television series like "The Bill" and "Eastenders." He was arguably more focused on his other creative endeavors, though, as he was a prolific poet and musician whose work was inspired by current affairs and socio-political causes.

According to Brighton Magazine, Zephaniah was the first person to record with Bob Marley's band, The Wailers, after the legendary reggae singer died. The song, titled "Free South Africa (Tuff Gong)," is a tribute to Nelson Mandela and can be found on the album "Rasta." Zephaniah was introduced to the former South African political leader after recording the track and even hosted a concert in his honor at London's Royal Albert Hall in 1996.

Meanwhile, as a poet, Zephaniah wrote for both adults and children. An influential member of the spoken-word dub poet movement, his poems explore topical themes such as inequality, race relations, and politics. He was a candidate for the Professor of Poetry position at Oxford University, and his contributions to poetry and literature saw him receive honorary doctorates from prestigious academic institutions in the United Kingdom, including the University of Westminster. Zephaniah had an incredible career, and he leaves behind a legacy of highly regarded work.