Idris Elba has announced his intention to move to Africa within the next 10 years to help develop the African film industry.
Read more: ‘Luther: The Fallen Sun’ review: Idris Elba’s rogue cop’s adventures on the big screen
The 52-year-old actor, best known for his roles in The Wire and Luther, was born in London to a mother from Ghana and a father from Sierra Leone.
In an interview with the BBC, he revealed plans to honor his African heritage by building a film studio on the Tanzanian island of Zanzibar, as well as one in Accra, the capital of Ghana.
“I would definitely think about settling here. I haven’t thought about it, but it will happen,” Elba said.
“God willing, I think I’ll (move) within the next five to 10 years,” he added. “I’m here to strengthen the film industry. It’s a 10-year process, but I can’t do it from abroad. I need to be within the continent.”
Elba explained that he wants to be based in three different countries on the continent: Zanzibar, Accra and Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone. “I’m going to go where they’re telling the story, and that’s really important,” he said.
Idris Elba. Credit: Jeff Spicer/Getty Images
In a separate interview with CNN, Elba said one of his goals is to help Africans have their own stories on the world stage. “A lot of media focuses[on negative portrayals of Africa]but the average age in Africa is 19 years old. These young people are optimistic and are excited about the opportunity to tell their stories. “I deserve it,” he said.
In August, the BBC reported that Elba’s project had been approved, with Zanzibar’s investment minister likening its potential to “Hollywood, Nollywood and Bollywood.”
“I don’t know what to call it on Zanzibar, Zollywood or Zawood,” joked Sharif Ali Sharif.
Back in April, Elba reiterated his intention to return to the role of Luther, hinting that a new project about the detective could be on the horizon.
