Idrissa Akuna Elba
- Born:
- September 6, 1972, Hackney, London, England
- Nationality:
- British
- Profession(s):
- Actor, Producer, DJ, Rapper, Singer
Early Life and Education
- Born and raised in Hackney, London, to a Sierra Leonean father and a Ghanaian mother.
- Began acting in school plays and was awarded a grant from The Prince's Trust at age 16.
- Left school and joined the National Youth Music Theatre.
Career and Major Achievements
- Early career involved small television roles and working under the DJ name DJ Big Driis.
- Breakthrough role as Stringer Bell in HBO's critically acclaimed series The Wire (2002-2004).
- Gained further recognition for his role as DCI John Luther in the BBC One series Luther (2010-2019), winning a Golden Globe Award.
- Became a successful film actor, appearing in numerous high-profile films. The notion of seeing idris elba movies stranded in a watchlist highlights his broad and successful career.
- Made his directorial debut with Yardie (2018).
Notable Works
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2007 | American Gangster | Tango |
| 2011 | Thor | Heimdall |
| 2013 | Pacific Rim | Stacker Pentecost |
| 2019 | Hobbs & Shaw | Brixton Lore |
| 2021 | The Suicide Squad | Robert DuBois / Bloodsport |
Television
- The Wire (2002-2004)
- Luther (2010-2019)
Discography (Selected)
- Big Man (EP, 2006)
- Mi Mandela (Album, 2014)
Legacy and Impact
Idris Elba has established himself as a prominent actor, producer, and musician, earning critical acclaim and commercial success in various media. His performances have garnered numerous awards and nominations, solidifying his position as a leading figure in the entertainment industry. He is also recognized for his philanthropic work and advocacy for social justice.