English actor Idrissa Akuna Elba better known as Idris Elba has made known his intention of moving to Africa in the next ten years in a hope to support the African film industry.
He also made mention of upcoming projects to establish film studios in Tanzania, Zanzibar and Ghana, which is a part of his vision to strengthen local filmmaking.
The English actor had earlier hinted that he would be playing the role of Okonkwo, the main character in Chinua Achebe’s book, Things Fall Apart, in an upcoming TV series adaptation.
This had actually sparked reactions especially from Nigerians. The actor has expressed his dedication to using his influence to elevate the film industry in Africa.
The actor further said that he will not be settled in one location as this may have him confined to a a particular place or location.
“I’m going to live in Accra, I’m going to live in Freetown Sierra Leone’s capital, I’m going to live in Zanzibar. I’m going to try and go where they’re telling stories – that’s really important,” he said.
Elba made his intention to boost Africa’s filmmaking industry known In a film industry event in Ghana. The London born actor studied acting at the National Youth Music Theatre in London.
He concluded by drawing attention to the need to correct wrong narratives about Africa held by non Africans.
Elba rose to prominence playing Stringer Bell in the HBO series The wire (2002-2004). He portrayed Nelson Mandela in Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom in 2013 which he was nominated for the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in Motion Picture- Drama. He has featured in movies such as Pacific Rim(2013), The Dark Tower(2017), The Harder They Fall(2021), and American Gangster(2007).
The actor was named in the Time 100 list of the most influential people in the world in 2016. His have grossed about 9.8 billion dollars and is one of the top 20 highest grossing actors.
He joined Marvel Cinematic Universe ( MCU) where he portraying Heimdall in six films beginning from Thor(2011). He also made his directorial debut with Yardie in 2018. Idris Elba is also a singer, rapper and a Dj.
