Entertainment –
Idris Elba: Too “Street” To Play James Bond?
Is actor Idris Elba too “street” to become the next James Bond? According to the writer of a new 007 novel, yes he is!
Entertainment
The 42-year-old Elba, who is black and is from London, is reportedly under consideration to become the latest incarnation of our favorite spy, James Bond. However, Andy Horowitz, who wrote “Trigger Mortis: A James Bond Novel,” doesn’t believe Idris Elba is suave enough to embody Bond. In fact, Horowitz believes Elba is “too street” for the part.
“Idris Elba is a terrific actor,” Horowitz said. “For me, Idris Elba is a bit too rough to play the part,” adding, “I think he is probably a bit too ‘street’ for Bond.”
Too street??? Not only is Idris Elba a fine actor with a long resume (Stringer Bell in “The Wire,” Nelson Mandela in “Mandela” and an upcoming role in “Star Trek,”) as well as an authentic British accent, but he has graced the covers of Essence, GQ and most recently Maxim magazine — becoming the first man to appear on a Maxim cover.
It’s all too possible Horowitz didn’t really mean to use the word “street.” In fact, “street” was probably a buzz word for “black” The hidden message here was probably not that Idris Elba is too “street” to play James Bond, but that Idris Elba is too BLACK to play James Bond. This hidden message was a stark reminder of how the world hasn’t changed rapidly enough when it comes to the stereotyping and typecasting of people of color.
Since issuing his controversial statement, Horowitz has backpedaled faster than a cyclist in a reversed video. He also issued the following statement:
“I was asked in my interview if Idris Elba would make a good James Bond. In the article I expressed the opinion that to my mind Adrian Lester would be a better choice but I’m a writer not a casting director so what do I know? Clumsily, I chose the word ‘street’ as Elba’s gritty portrayal of DCI John Luther was in my mind but I admit it was a poor choice of word. I am mortified to have caused offence.”
Naturally, Idris Elba himself got word of the comments, but instead of going “street,” he took the “suave” high road.
“Always keep smiling,” Elba posted to Instagram. “It takes no energy and never hurts! Learned that from the street!”
Touche’ Idris Elba. That is check and checkmate!
