By Ola Alowoloke

When renowned U.K-based culture advocate and broadcaster, Bonnie Greer (November 16, 1948 to September 15, 2026) passed on, few days ago, the world lost an icon whose passion cuts across global appreciation.

Artist, Lanre Olagoke MBE has described Greer’s path with him as “remarkable journey”. Olagoke whose works on the UK include empowering the less privileged with creative skills recalls the moments he shared with Greer in the past eight years.

Greer, an American-British playwright and former board member of the British Museum, and London Film School was one of the close associates of Olagoke.

“As I reflect on the remarkable journey we shared over the past eight years, I find it hard to encapsulate the essence of Bonnie Greer, my beloved mentor and dear friend, whom I affectionately called Egbon” Olagoke wrote in a tribute few days ago. “From the moment our paths crossed at the House of St Barnabas in Soho, I knew there was something extraordinary about her. She was a force of nature, a complex tapestry woven from the threads of her experiences and wisdom.”

Olagoke disclosed how Greer adopted him as her “Aburo, a term that signifies brotherhood and affection, filling a familial void for both of us in this side of the world.” Olagoke recalled how Greer often remarked that she had no relatives in the UK, but all in the United States, but expressed her commitment to the U.K. Olagoke eulogised Greer, noting that in her unique way, she created a family that extended beyond blood, as he was honored to be part of that bonding.

“Through the trials of COVID 19 and the ups and downs of life, we navigated the complexities of our existence together, Olagoke stated. “Bonnie was not just a mentor; she was a profound thinker who challenged me with her probing questions.”

Excerpts from Olagoke’s tribute: “She would often ask, ‘So who am I to you then?’ Her trickster-like approach to conversation compelled me to dig deep and confront truths I might have otherwise overlooked.

I once told her that she was “add-normal,” a blend of normal and extraordinary, and she accepted this idea, recognizing that as creatives, we exist in a realm that transcends typical definitions.

“Our relationship was nurtured in moments of serendipity, like the second time we met at King’s Cross, which solidified our bond. She was a tough cookie to crack; it took years before she finally let me in, revealing aspects of herself that even her closest associates never knew. Bonnie was a myriad of faces—each one more complex than the last. The Bonnie from Chicago was just one dimension; the Bonnie outside the States was an enigma, a reality that only those who lived and worked with her consistently could truly appreciate.

“She had a unique way of choosing those allowed into her inner circle. If you could call her at 3:00 am and she picked up, or if you received immediate replies to your texts regardless of the hour, you began to understand the fullness of who she was. Many knew her in parts, but my privilege was to experience the entirety of her being.

“Bonnie was not just a literary giant; she was a passionate advocate for culture and creativity. We collaborated on various projects, such as the live painting session at the National Gallery inspired by her book, “Miss La La’s Hanging By Her Teeth,” and the “Reclamation” project, at The British Museum which celebrated African and diasporic history. Each endeavor was a testament to our shared commitment
to art and cultural engagement.

“The world has lost a brilliant mind, a fierce advocate for Black history, and a unique spirit on September 16, 2026. She was 77, but her legacy will live on in the hearts of those like me who had the honor of knowing her. Bonnie Greer was not just a mentor or a friend; she was a phenomenon—a beautiful blend of wisdom, challenge, and love.

“Thank you, Egbon, for everything. You were truly one of a kind.”