Idris Elba has revealed that the intense focus on his race during discussions about him playing James Bond made the prospect 'disgusting and off-putting'. The actor, long rumoured to be in contention for the role of 007, spoke candidly on the 'SmartLess' podcast about how the conversation soured his interest.
Elba said he was initially flattered by the idea, describing it as a 'pinnacle' achievement. However, he noted that while most people were supportive, a vocal minority turned the debate into a racial issue. 'Those that weren't happy about the idea made the whole thing disgusting and off-putting, because it became about race,' he explained.
The actor recalled being labelled 'too street' by author Anthony Horowitz in 2015, a comment widely criticised as racist. Elba said he bore the brunt of the negativity, which ultimately cooled his enthusiasm for the role.
This is not the first time Elba has spoken out about racial pigeonholing. In a February interview with Esquire UK, he said he stopped calling himself a 'Black actor' because it created limitations. 'Racism is very real, but from my perspective, it's only as powerful as you allow it to be,' he stated.
Elba's comments come ahead of his new Apple TV+ thriller series 'Hijack', premiering on 28 June.
