Idris Elba sparks hope of a Luther film during Bafta interview

Idris Elba spoke about big screen plans for Luther
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Ellena Cruse1 August 2020
The Weekender

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Idris Elba has hinted that work is underway to shoot a feature-length film based on his hit TV show Luther.

The actor 47, starred in all five series of the BBC detective series and played the show's brooding namesake.

The last episode ended on a cliffhanger prompting some views to believe the show was over for good in January 2019.

However, Elba sparked hope during the virtual Bafta Awards after sharing his desire to play John Luther on the big screen.

Idris Elba with some of his Luther cast mates
Getty Images

“I’ve maintained I would like to see it come to a film and that is where I think it’s heading towards, and I’m hoping it’s going to happen soon," he said.

“With a film the sky is the limit, you can be a little bit more bold with the storylines, maybe international, maybe up the scale, but John Luther is always going to be John Luther.”

The actor, who is married to model Sabrina Dhowre, won a Bafta special award at the ceremony.

He was honoured for being a "fierce advocate for diversity and new talent”, and the work of his production company Green Door Pictures was also commended.

Chief executive Amanda Berry said: “Idris is one of Britain’s best-known actors in the UK and internationally with a long and successful career on screen, and an accomplished director, producer and writer.

“He is also a driving force for championing diversity, ensuring talented people from all backgrounds achieve their potential.”

Previous recipients of the Bafta special award include sports commentator John Motson, comedian Sir Lenny Henry and presenter Cilla Black.

Due to coronavirus, it was hosted by Richard Ayoade behind closed doors and without a studio audience.

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