Idris Elba has been knighted in the New Year’s Honors list for his work helping young people.
The 53-year-old actor, famous for playing DCI John Luther on the BBC’s Lutherspent years fighting youth violence and giving young people better chances in life.
Idris started Don’t Stop Your Future to help stop knife crime, as he also set up the Elba Hope Foundation with his wife, Sabrina Dhowre Elba, which gives money to projects that support education, jobs and personal growth.
The icon said: “I accept this honor on behalf of the many young people whose talent, ambition and resilience have driven the work of the Elba Hope Foundation.”
He added that everyone has a responsibility to help young people find a path away from violence.
In 2024, A house of dynamite star called for a ban on dangerous knives and met Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and the King to launch a new anti-knife crime project.
His foundation also worked with the Prince’s Foundation to provide free courses for young people who want to work in creative fields such as music, art or theatre.
In addition to his charity work, Idris appeared in The Wire, played Nelson Mandela, appeared as Heimdall in Marvel films, voiced Knuckles in Sonic the Hedgehog and played Bloodsport in The Suicide Squad.
His knighthood recognizes both his charity work and his successful acting career.
