Idris Elba recently responded to the intense backlash he received after declaring he no longer considers himself a black actor.
Idris Elba Blasts Backlash After He Refused To Identify As A Black Actor-‘Our Skin Is No More Than That’
His comments created an uproar on social media when he explained how he viewed the designation of being a ‘black actor’ as restrictive and that an excessive focus on race could impede one’s goals and progress.
Idris declared that even though he is part of the African American community, he doesn’t consider that an important factor when it comes to his professional life. He stated that his choice to be an actor was not due to the shortage of diversity in the field, but rather because he believed it was a field in which he could succeed.
With that being said, this is what Idris had to say: “We’ve got to grow. We’ve got to. Our skin is no more than that: it’s just skin. Rant over. Racism is very real. But from my perspective, it’s only as powerful as you allow it to be.”
Those comments are significant for the following reasons. First of all, Elba made it clear that he is not looking to politicize the issue of race in order to get a certain narrative across. Secondly, given that he is stressing the importance of trying to break barriers by working hard, it seems that he is offering his own solution to the problem that people feel exists.
The social media response was very positive. A certain subset of people were of the view that the actor was continuing to show that his integrity was worth more by standing up for his beliefs regardless of what others may have to say about it all. One person wrote: “Love him all the more for this! Labels are not helpful in any situation.”
So there you have it folks. What did you think about this? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below. If you liked reading this article, then check out our other features on the Daily Soap Dish.
