'Peaky Blinders' actor Benjamin Zephaniah passes away at 65
Peaky Blinders actor Benjamin Zephaniah, passed away at the age of 65. The news was shared through a heartfelt post on his official Instagram account, revealing that his wife was by his side until the very end.
Peaky Blinders actor Benjamin Zephaniah, passed away at the age of 65. The news was shared through a heartfelt post on his official Instagram account, revealing that his wife was by his side until the very end.
Born in April 1958 in Handsworth, Birmingham, Zephaniah considered his birthplace a "cold suburb of Kingston, Jamaica." His journey into the world of poetry began in his early teenage years, as he started performing locally. However, his formal education ended at the age of 14 when he left school.
— Peaky Blinders (@ThePeakyBlinder) December 7, 2023In 1979, Zephaniah made a significant move to London, where his debut collection, "Pen Rhythm," was published. Known for his passionate activism, he often performed at demonstrations, youth gatherings, and outside police stations. Reflecting on his activism, he stated in 2019, "I was a big protester, not just against racism but also apartheid. We are a multicultural society, but the institutions have to catch up with us."
He became a familiar face on the small screen, making notable appearances in series like 'Peaky Blinders,' where he portrayed the preacher Jeremiah Jesus. His involvement in 14 episodes across six seasons of the show showcased his versatility. Additionally, Zephaniah's TV credits include 'EastEnders,' 'The Bill,' and 'Zen Motoring.'