Idris Elba Responded To Backlash Over Him Saying He Doesn't Call Himself A "Black Actor"
You know Idris Elba. He's starred Luther, Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, The Wire, and many other projects.
Idris recently got into hot water for an interview he did with Esquire, where he said he has stopped referring to himself as a Black actor.
Here's the full quote, so you have all the context:
"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. As humans, we are obsessed with race. And that obsession can really hinder people’s aspirations, hinder people’s growth. Racism should be a topic for discussion, sure. Racism is very real. But from my perspective, it’s only as powerful as you allow it to be. I stopped describing myself as a Black actor when I realized it put me in a box. We’ve got to grow. We’ve got to. Our skin is no more than that: It’s just skin. Rant over. 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. 'Oh, UK’s in the house!'”
His comments drew backlash and debate on social media. Well, now Idris has addressed people's criticisms in an interview with the Guardian.
"Me saying I don’t like to call myself a Black actor is my prerogative. That’s me, not you," Idris said.
"So, for you to turn around and say to me, I’m ‘denying my Blackness.’ On what grounds? Did you hear that? Where am I denying it? And what for? It’s just stupid. Whatever.”
