Speaking with Esquire UK, Elba said humans are “obsessed” with race, in part because humans too often focus on their differences.
“As humans, we are obsessed with race. And that obsession can really hinder people’s aspirations, hinder people’s growth,” he told the publication. “Racism should be a topic for discussion, sure. Racism is very real. But from my perspective, it’s only as powerful as you allow it to be.
“I stopped describing myself as a black actor when I realized it put me in a box,” he revealed. “We’ve got to grow. We’ve got to. Our skin is no more than that: It’s just skin.” …
“As you get up the ladder, you get asked what it’s like to be the first black to do this or that. Well, it’s the same as it would be if I were white. It’s the first time for me. I don’t want to be the first black. I’m the first Idris.”
[What a great perspective. Get ready for the JK Rowling treatment, though, Mr. Elba. — Ed]
Join the conversation as a VIP Member