Where is Behailu Kebede now? Update after Netflix’s Grenfell: Uncovered

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Behailu Kebede is a victim of the Grenfell Tower tragedy, yet, as revealed in the recent Netflix documentary titled “Grenfell: Uncovered,” he was unjustly made the fall guy for the fire, despite having no role in the tragic event.

On the morning of June 14, 2017, a fire ignited in Grenfell Tower, a 24-story apartment complex located in West London. The initial small flame quickly grew into a massive blaze, rapidly spreading throughout the building because of flammable exterior renovation materials that had been installed recently.

The Netflix film chronicles these incidents, showing how a 60-hour blaze tragically took 72 lives and revealing the underlying systemic flaws in both businesses and the UK government that set the stage for such a catastrophe.

In a sympathetic setting, victims, their families, and emergency workers are provided an opportunity to express their experiences and question the circumstances that led to such an event. The documentary “Grenfell: Uncovered” further delves into how Kebede was wrongfully brought into prominence, as the true origins of the catastrophe were elsewhere.

Where is Behailu Kebede now?

It’s thought that Behailu Kebede resides in London together with his family, though he has remained largely out of the public eye following the recent event. Nevertheless, he made a statement last year, expressing that the incident had left him feeling like a mere specter.

Despite the fact that the fire originated from an electrical issue within Kebede’s apartment refrigerator, an investigation revealed that he had taken all precautions, such as contacting emergency services. However, it was the cost-effective insulation material that allowed the flames to rapidly spread.

In the recently released documentary, Peter Apps, who serves as news editor at Inside Housing, highlights that in situations similar to the Grenfell fire, there is often a strong inclination within the media to identify a single culprit or a straightforward explanation for the events.

An article published by The Daily Mail took a harsh stance, revealing the owner of the apartment where the fire originated. However, on social media, there are rumors that this incident might be related to Islamic terrorism. It’s important to clarify that the individual is an Ethiopian Orthodox Christian and had a depiction of the Virgin Mary in his residence.

For around 25 years, he resided on the fourth floor of Grenfell Tower, acting as an Uber driver. Due to the high degree of harassment he was experiencing, the authorities proposed that he enter a witness protection program.

The apps adds, “He was both a survivor and a victim of the events. Completely absolved of any blame.

2018 inquiries revealed that Kebede was woken up by his smoke alarm due to smoke emanating from behind his Hotpoint refrigerator-freezer, as described by Rajiv Menon QC.

Straight away, he dialed 911, informed nearby residents, and departed, forgetting his keys. Menon stated emphatically, “Considering the numerous misconceptions surrounding him over the past year, it’s crucial to emphasize that he is a vital witness rather than a criminal suspect.

Grenfell documentary reveals where the blame lies

The additional data presented in the film suggests that the critical turning point occurred much sooner, specifically during a £10 million renovation project finished in 2016. During this refurbishment, it was decided to use fire-prone aluminum composite panels instead of safer options.

Based on documents revealed afterwards, it was initially estimated by Leadbitter that the project cost for the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea would be £11.27 million. However, this figure exceeded the council’s budget by £1.6 million, which led to the contract being put back up for tender again.

In the end, Rydon pocketed a £8.7 million prize, sparing the council a potential loss of £2.5 million. This move, along with others, has drawn criticism and questions.

It’s been verified by experts that if the cladding wasn’t used, it’s highly likely that the fire in Kebede’s apartment would have been confined there, and it wouldn’t have progressed to the rest of the building.

Though found innocent, Kebede’s life has undergone an irreversible transformation, as he shared during Grenfell Testimony Week, a four-day gathering in 2024 that offered a space for those impacted by the tragedy to speak out.

The actor recited his statement because of the widespread media attention surrounding him. “Following the tragedy, I felt compelled and desired to interact with the families who had lost loved ones, show my respects to the departed, as well as connect with other survivors from the Tower,” he expressed.

Given all the media attention, I lacked the bravery to carry out my actions. Instead, I found myself wanting to retreat and escape from public view. I grew increasingly anxious, convinced that people were tracking me, and I felt constantly on edge, as if I was traumatized in every moment of my conscious life.

I hope it becomes clear to the defendants how an average citizen, without influence or affluence, can be impacted by a disaster orchestrated by influential and wealthy societal forces. It’s unfortunate when such entities choose to remain quiet to safeguard their own interests.

He admitted that he’s not feeling much improved [today]. He described himself as a mere shadow of the man his family lives with,” he further explained (according to The Mirror).

In my mind, I acknowledge that the fire was likely caused by the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, Celotex, and the Government. But in my emotions, which are overwhelmed with fear and sadness, it was in my home, specifically my kitchen, where it originated. This pain, this sense of shame, is a heavy burden I carry.

As a passionate documentary enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that “Grenfell: Uncovered” is now streaming on Netflix! If you’re hungry for more riveting documentaries, take a peek at where Wendy Weil Rush is currently with OceanGate, catch the latest from Karen Read for free, and learn about the recent controversies surrounding Travis Scott, especially from Trainwreck viewers. Happy viewing!

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2025-06-20 14:19