Idris Elba says he turned down Eastenders role because he 'didn't fancy it'

07 March 2023 , 10:48

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Idris Elba says he turned down Eastenders role because he 'didn't fancy it'

Idris Elba revealed he was once offered a role on EastEnders but turned it down as he 'didn't fancy it'.

The Luther actor, 50, has been an icon for years and has even been put forward by fans as a possible replacement for James Bond so it's no surprise that even soaps want him.

Idris and Lord Of The Rings actor Andy Serkis made an appearance on Capital Breakfast with Roman Kemp recently where they discussed their iconic roles.

Host Roman questioned whether the two turned down any roles throughout their careers.

Idris revealed: "I got offered a role in EastEnders once that I didn't take...

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"I don't know what role it was but yeah my mum was like 'why did you not take it!'"

Idris was once offered a role on EastEnders (Alexander Smith)

Roman laughed at the prospect and said it would have 'been so good' if he accepted the role, but Idris said: "No, I just didn't fancy it."

Earlier this month, Idris further addressed the rumours of him playing James Bond after years of speculation.

Following the departure of Daniel Craig from the 007 role in 2021, fans have been guessing about the potential replacements.

Daniel played the secret agent - who was created by late author Ian Fleming - in five films over a 15-year period.

Franchise producer Barbara Broccoli, 61 - who co-owns Eon Productions - suggested last year that Idris' name had come up in conversations about Daniel's replacement.

He turned down the role as he didn't 'fancy it' (Getty Images for Gucci)

The star recently addressed rumours of him potentially playing James Bond (Tim P. Whitby/Getty Images)

Idris stated that he's keen to continue playing DCI John Luther instead, whilst promoting the film, Luther: The Fallen Sun.

Heart Breakfast Radio host Amanda Holden, 52, asked during the chat: "How are you feeling about the sorts of rumours out there about James Bond and your name being attached to it?"

In response, Idris said: "It is one of the biggest compliments I can ever get as an actor. You know, the role of Bond is such a coveted role and to be considered for it is amazing."

Idris continued: "But honestly, I always secretly felt that Luther is my answer to that. It's not as espionage it's not you know, suave, it's you know, a relatable guy that's going to catch bad guys that's all I'm you know, wanting to do really".

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