In a recent episode of the popular chat show, The Jonathan Ross Show, viewers were treated to an extended interview with the renowned poet and writer, Benjamin Zephaniah. Zephaniah, who has had an incredible career in poetry and music, sat down with host Jonathan Ross to discuss his work and share some fascinating stories.
The interview began with a discussion about Halloween, to which Zephaniah revealed that he had once experienced a supernatural event. He recounted a strange incident where he and five other people saw a cousin walk into a house in Birmingham, only to discover later that she had been hit by a car and died momentarily before coming back to life. This eerie encounter left Zephaniah contemplating the existence of supernatural phenomena.
Known for his powerful and thought-provoking poetry, Zephaniah discussed his early ambitions and love for the art form. He mentioned that he had a vision at the age of eight, envisioning a future where he would combine poetry, music, and theater in a political and humorous way. Little did he know that years later, he would be sitting on The Jonathan Ross Show, discussing his achievements.
Zephaniah’s poetry has been celebrated for its ability to connect with real-life issues and emotions. His recent accolade, winning the BAFTA for Best Entertainment Program for his show “Life and Rhymes,” was a significant milestone for him and for poetry as a whole. Zephaniah expressed his gratitude to Sky for taking a risk and dedicating an entire series to spoken word poetry, a genre that is often seen as underground or highbrow.
The conversation took a lighthearted turn as Ross and Zephaniah delved into their personal lives. Zephaniah revealed that he didn’t drink, smoke, or engage in activities like most people do. He humorously stated that his annual indulgence was limited to once or twice a year, leaving the audience in stitches.
Adding to his list of talents, Zephaniah also discussed his passion for martial arts, particularly Tai Chi. He explained that he had spent a considerable amount of time in China studying and teaching martial arts, like Tai Chi, which is often misunderstood as a floaty and dancy activity. Zephaniah debunked this myth by demonstrating a Tai Chi movement, emphasizing the importance of relaxation, connection, and self-defense.
The interview concluded with a brief mention of Zephaniah’s appearance in the popular drama series, “Peaky Blinders.” Zephaniah shared a funny anecdote about how the opportunity to be on the show seemed like a bizarre coincidence, as he had been reading a book titled “Peaky Blinders and The Gangs of Birmingham” at the time.
It was a lively and engaging interview that showcased Benjamin Zephaniah‘s multifaceted talents and offered viewers a glimpse into his extraordinary life and accomplishments. As always, The Jonathan Ross Show delivered a captivating and entertaining conversation with a remarkable guest.
