The 53-year-old star discussed his evolving career during a Q&A session at the Red Sea International Film Festival in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.
Elba, known for his acclaimed acting in films and the television series Luther, has directed only one feature film before—2018’s Yardie.
Elba, known for his acclaimed acting in films and the television series Luther, has directed only one feature film before—2018’s Yardie.
His latest effort, the short film Dust To Dreams, marks his return behind the camera after several years. He expressed his desire to transition fully into directing in the future.
“I’m hoping that my fan base as an actor isn’t mad at me,” Elba remarked, emphasizing that directing allows him to “flex slightly different muscles” and engage with the filmmaking process in a new way.
Elba also provided insights into his upcoming project, Apple’s This Is How It Goes, an adaptation of Neil LaBute’s 2005 play.
“I’m hoping that my fan base as an actor isn’t mad at me,” Elba remarked, emphasizing that directing allows him to “flex slightly different muscles” and engage with the filmmaking process in a new way.
Elba also provided insights into his upcoming project, Apple’s This Is How It Goes, an adaptation of Neil LaBute’s 2005 play.
In reimagining the story, which originally centered on a Black man married to a white woman, Elba reversed the roles, exploring the dynamics of a white man married to a Black woman.
He aims to highlight themes of marriage, trust, and race, reflecting contemporary social narratives. The film, which was shot in Ghana, recently completed production.
Addressing circulating rumors about him taking on the role of James Bond, Elba clarified that no such casting decision has been made.
Addressing circulating rumors about him taking on the role of James Bond, Elba clarified that no such casting decision has been made.
Nevertheless, he will return to acting in February 2026 as Detective John Luther, reprising the role that has defined him since the Luther series began in 2010.
Despite his increasing focus on directing, Elba emphasized his enduring passion for acting.
Despite his increasing focus on directing, Elba emphasized his enduring passion for acting.
“Being on set doesn’t feel like work—it’s a privilege,” he said.
Elba’s Ghana-shot film underscores his growing connection with the African film industry, reflecting a trend of internationally acclaimed actors exploring storytelling and production in Africa.
Elba’s Ghana-shot film underscores his growing connection with the African film industry, reflecting a trend of internationally acclaimed actors exploring storytelling and production in Africa.
His directorial pursuits suggest a future where Elba may balance acting and directing while championing diverse narratives that challenge traditional perspectives on race, relationships, and culture.