Idris Elba outlines acting retirement plans and discomfort in political circles

Idris Elba explains why he hopes to transition into full-time directing

Idris Elba shared that he intends to eventually retire from acting and transition fully into directing during a Q&A session at the Red Sea International Film Festival on Wednesday, according to the Daily Mail. The 53-year-old actor, whose films have collectively earned more than $9.8 billion worldwide, said he hopes fans will support his decision to shift his creative focus.

Elba explained that directing offers him a different creative challenge and allows him to participate in filmmaking in a way he finds increasingly fulfilling. He appeared at the festival in Saudi Arabia to promote Dust to Dreams, his new short film and second directorial project following Yardie.

During the discussion, Elba also acknowledged feeling out of his depth when interacting with heads of state and political leaders, saying he sometimes feels like an “imposter” in those environments. He noted that he may consider going back to school to study human sciences to better support the philanthropic and advocacy work he has taken on.

Elba emphasized his interest in helping develop Africa’s creative industries, including news, fashion, and music, and said he has been exploring the policies needed to support long-term growth.

Although he is preparing to step away from acting eventually, Elba is not done yet. The Hollywood Reporter recently confirmed that production on a second Luther film is scheduled to begin in February. The sequel to Luther: The Fallen Sun will stream on Netflix and feature returning cast members including Ruth Wilson as Alice Morgan and Dermot Crowley as Martin Schenk. Writer Neil Cross and director Jamie Payne are also set to return.

Elba appeared at multiple festival events, including the Golden Globes Gala dinner, as he continues to promote his latest creative projects.