Benjamin Zephaniah news: Tributes pour in for Talking Turkeys poet and Peaky Blinders star
‘Talking Turkeys’ writer and activist was diagnosed with a brain tumour eight weeks ago
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The literary world is in mourning for the poet and author Benjamin Zephaniah, who has died age 65.
The Birmingham-born dub poet, best known for collections such as Talking Turkeys, died on Thursday (7 December). He had been diagnosed with a brain tumour eight weeks ago, his family shared.
“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,” a statement posted on his social media channels read.
“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.”
One of Britain’s most prolific and outspoken literary voices, Zephaniah dealt with themes of racism, poverty, and social injustice in his work.
Benjamin Zephaniah, pioneering poet and Peaky Blinders star, dies aged 65
Cillian Murphy remembers ‘proud Brummie and Peaky Blinder’ Benjamin Zephaniah
I met Benjamin Zephaniah several times – he was as open and kind-hearted as his poetry
How Benjamin Zephaniah’s brilliant performance in Peaky Blinders brought him to a wider global audience
Benjamin Zephaniah reveals why he turned OBE down in resurfaced interview
Author and Birmingham City University professor Kehinde Andrews has remembered a “Brum legend” in his post.
The author Diana Evans has stated that she is “entering mourning” after the news of Zephaniah’s death.
Chinonyerem Odimba, playwright of Black Love, has also shared her reaction to the news.
Scottish comedian Frankie Boyle has added his voice to the many people paying tribute to Zephaniah across social media.
Reposting Zephaniah’s official account’s announcement, the writer and comic wrote: “So very sad to hear this. The world has lost a strong, strong human being. Rest in Power.”
Writer Derek Owusu has shared his own memories of Zephaniah on social media.
“Benjamin expressed a calmness to the idea death and said that perhaps it’s just his time,” he said. “When discussing not being here anymore, he said, in jest, the only thing he worries about is not being here to see Aston Villa win the Premiership. I will miss him.”
Aston Villa, the football team of which Zephaniah was a life-long fan, has shared a number of tributes on social media.
“Everyone at Aston Villa is deeply saddened by news of the passing of legendary writer and poet, Benjamin Zephaniah,” they wrote on Twitter/X.
“Named as one of Britain’s top 50 post-war writers in 2008, Benjamin was a lifelong Aston Villa fan and had served as an ambassador for the @AVFCFoundation. The thoughts and condolences of all at the club are with his family and friends at this time.”
“Such sad news about the great Benjamin Zephaniah,” wrote author and How to Fail podcast host Elizabeth Day.
“Author of the first poetry collection I ever owned. A magnificent presence in literature and in life.”
Musician Billy Bragg has tweeted: “Very sorry to hear this news. Benjamin Zephaniah was our radical poet laureate. Rest in power, my friend.”
Author Nels Abbey wrote: “Our learned and beloved elder, Benjamin Zephaniah is now an ancestor.
“To call this crushing news is a massive understatement. He was far too young, far too brilliant and still had so much to offer. A loss we’ll never recover from. RIP Professor Zephaniah.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments