'Peaky Blinders' actor Benjamin Zephaniah dies due to brain tumour

Actor-poet Benjamin Zephaniah passed away at the age of 65 on December 7. He was best known for his role as Jeremiah Jesus in the popular show ‘Peaky Blinders’.

According to a statement posted to Zephaniah's official Instagram account, he died after being diagnosed with a brain tumour eight weeks ago.

‘Benjamin's wife was by his side throughout and was with him when he passed,’ the statement read.

‘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,’ the statement continued.

Zephaniah, hailing from Birmingham, England, later moved to London and made his debut as a poet with ‘Pen Rhythm’ at 22 in 1980.

He authored 13 more poetry books, delving into political themes like the British legal system in ‘The Dread Affair’ (1985) and reflecting on his Palestine visit in ‘Rasta Time in Palestine’ (1990).

Additionally, he crafted novels, plays, and penned his autobiography, ‘The Life and Rhymes of Benjamin Zephaniah,’ released in 2018, according to Variety.

He also made several television appearances. He was known for his role as the preacher Jeremiah Jesus on ‘Peaky Blinders’. He appeared in 14 episodes of the series over its six seasons.

Zephaniah's other TV credits include ‘EastEnders’, ‘The Bill’ and ‘Zen Motoring’, reported Variety.

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