Renowned British Poet and Author Benjamin Zephaniah Passes Away at 65
Renowned British poet and author, Benjamin Zephaniah, passed away at the age of 65, as confirmed by his family on his official X account A profound loss for the literary world
The family of British poet and author Benjamin Zephaniah announced on his official X account that he has passed away after a brief illness. The 65-year-old was diagnosed with a brain tumor just eight weeks ago. Zephaniah gained recognition for his portrayal of the Black experience in Britain, rising to fame in the 1980s with his unique "dub poetry" style, which combined verse with reggae music.
His writings frequently delved into his upbringing in Handsworth, Birmingham, and the civil unrest that swept through English cities in the mid-80s.
He authored 14 volumes of poetry, seven plays, and seven albums of original music. In 2008, The Times recognized him as one of the 50 greatest post-war writers.
His family shared on X, "Benjamin was a true pioneer and innovator; he contributed so much to the world. With an impressive career that included a vast body of poems, literature, music, television, and radio."
DJ and BBC radio presenter Trevor Nelson praised Zephaniah as a "unique talent" on Z.
In a post to X, formerly Twitter, the BBC radio host wrote: "So sad to hear about the passing of Benjamin Zephaniah. Too young, too soon, he had a lot more to give. He was a unique talent R.I.P."
