OBITUARY

Benjamin Zephaniah, poet and performer, dies aged 65

The anarchist, anti-racist artist was diagnosed with a brain tumour eight weeks ago
Benjamin Zephaniah publicly rejected an OBE in 2003, citing the honour’s links to empire and slavery
Benjamin Zephaniah publicly rejected an OBE in 2003, citing the honour’s links to empire and slavery
TOM JENKINS/GETTY IMAGES

Benjamin Zephaniah, the dub poet and writer, has died aged 65.

His family announced his death on Thursday morning, “with great sadness and regret”, after he was diagnosed with a brain tumour eight weeks ago. His wife was by his side throughout his illness and when he died, the family said in a statement. “We shared him with the world and we know many will be shocked and saddened by this news,” they said.

“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. Thank you for the love you have shown.”

Zephaniah, the anarchist poet children