Idris Elba has elaborated on why he chooses not to identify as a “Black actor” after his previous statements stirred controversy.
The 50-year-old screen sensation has established himself as one of the UK’s most notable acting talents, with parts in TV programmes such as The Wire and blockbuster films such as Thor, Avengers, The Jungle Book, Prometheus, The Suicide Squad, Sonic The Hedgehog, and the Fast & Furious trilogy.
On his home turf, he is well-known for his portrayal of the titular melancholy detective in the BBC drama Luther, and he will reprise his role in the show’s first cinematic spin-off, Luther: The Fallen Sun, which will be released on Netflix next month.
In a recent interview, Idris stated that he no longer wants his job successes to be characterised by his race, and that society’s ‘obsession with race’ can’really hamper people’s desire.
‘I stopped referring to myself as a Black actor because it put me in a box,’ he told Esquire UK.
After admirers began questioning his views on social media, he has now doubled down on his earlier position.
In a tweet, Idris explained: ‘There isn’t a soul on this earth that can question whether I consider myself a BLACK MAN or not. Being an “actor” is a profession, like being an “architect” ,they are not defined by race.
‘However, If YOU define your work by your race, that is your Perogative. Ah lie?’
Following his first remarks, fellow British actor John Boyega responded to Idris’ words, writing: ‘He’s not incorrect lol. Many Black and POC performers have spoken out about being stereotyped due of their race.’
‘I think we should obsess on who is typecasting and placing performers in boxes because of this,’ the Star Wars star responded.
‘Not on making weird adjustments for them. We continuously focus on what we have to do so they don’t do this or that. Very worrying. We BLACK and that’s that.’
Following the success of Bridgerton, John, 30, applauded colorblind casting and stated that he would want to embark on non-stereotypical parts such as historical plays.
Idris emphasised the differences in racial views between the United States and the United Kingdom in his interview.
‘Of course, I’m a member of the Black community. You say a prominent one. But when I go to America, I’m a prominent member of the British community,’ he said.
‘“Oh, UK’s in the house!” If we spent half the time not talking about the differences but the similarities between us, the entire planet would have a shift in the way we deal with each other.’
Another weighed in: ‘I read the article and i think I get what @idriselba is trying to say. Actors should be labeled just actors. We don’t say things like I’m calling the black plumber or the black carpenter.
‘He’s saying he doesn’t just want to be known as just a Black actor because that is limiting. That is how Black actors are kept in a box. No one says I’m a famous White actor. We can see so why the label? He just wants to be Idris.’
‘I agree,’ another person said. However, acting is one profession where race may be an issue. Because filmmaking is a form of storytelling, and so many of our stories revolve on race. I can’t think of another profession where race is an issue.’
‘When I want a Black doctor, that does not restrict that doctor; it lifts that Black professional up,’ one added. And it makes my life and health better.’