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

Benjamin Zephaniah dies after being diagnosed with brain tumor

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.

Pioneering poet Benjamin Zephaniah dies aged 65

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[7 December 2023 11:48 · Isobel Lewis]

Charlene White, ITV News presenter and Loose Women star, has paid tribute on social media.

[7 December 2023 11:45 · Isobel Lewis]

Michael Rosen ‘devastated’ by Zephaniah death

Author Michael Rosen is among the first literary figures to pay tribute to Zephaniah.

“The tragic terrible news has come to me that Benjamin Zephaniah’s family have announced that Benjamin has died,” he wrote on Twitter/X.

“I’m devastated. I admired him, respected him, learnt from him, loved him. Love and condolences to the family and to all who loved him too.”

Rosen has encouraged his followers to send their fondest memories of Zephaniah.

[7 December 2023 11:38 · Isobel Lewis]

Benjamin Zephaniah, writer and poet known for his work on race and racism, dies aged 65

Pioneering British writer and poet Benjamin Zephaniah has died aged 65, eight weeks after he was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

In a statement shared on social media on Thursday (7 December), 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. Benjamin was diagnosed with a brain tumour eight weeks ago.

“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.”

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