Idris Elba Headshot

Idris Elba

Idris Elba is an award-winning actor, producer, DJ, and philanthropist known for his iconic roles in The Wire, Luther, and many blockbuster films, as well as his global influence in music, activism, and storytelling.

Meet Idris Elba

With a commanding presence and undeniable charisma, Idris Elba has carved out one of the most multifaceted careers in entertainment. From his breakthrough role as Stringer Bell in The Wire to his Golden Globe-winning performance in Luther, and his voice echoing through Marvel blockbusters and Disney animations, Elba is a global icon with unmatched range. But beyond the screen, he’s also a celebrated DJ, a champion for youth empowerment, and a driving force for industry equity. Idris Elba is available to be booked for corporate and private events. Contact the Mollie Plotkin Group today to inquire about Idris Elba’s fees.

Want to book Idris Elba for an event?

Contact the Mollie Plotkin Group at (215) 995-0905 to book Idris Elba for corporate or private events, keynote speeches, workshops, fireside chats, motivational speaking, or virtual appearances. Our agency will work directly with your organization and our keynote speakers to create an unforgettable event.

The Mollie Plotkin Group is the leading keynote speakers agency and entertainment bureau bringing excitement to audiences, clients, and employees. We represent subject-matter experts in every possible field, so whether we’re your partner in creating a memorable meeting, or your meeting planner’s secret weapon in securing the perfect keynote speaker, we’re in this with you.

Biography

From East London to the World Stage

Born in Hackney to Sierra Leonean and Ghanaian parents, Idris Elba grew up immersed in culture, community, and ambition. He got his start in acting thanks to a chance encounter with a casting call in The Stage and quickly earned his place in the industry through relentless hustle. Before fame, he juggled odd jobs—fitting tires by day and DJing clubs by night. Nonetheless, those early days laid the groundwork for the versatile artist he is today.

Breakout Roles & Global Recognition

Elba’s first big break came with HBO’s critically acclaimed The Wire, where he portrayed the calculating and charismatic Stringer Bell. He followed it with his defining role as DCI John Luther in the BBC crime thriller Luther, earning a Golden Globe and multiple Emmy nominations. His film credits span gritty dramas (Beasts of No Nation), inspirational biopics (Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom), blockbuster franchises (Thor, Pacific Rim, The Suicide Squad), and animated hits (Zootopia, The Jungle Book, Sonic the Hedgehog).

Director, Producer, & Cultural Storyteller

A creative force behind the camera as well, Elba made his directorial debut with Yardie. Through his companies GreenDoor Pictures and 22Summers, he’s producing inclusive, future-forward stories across genres and platforms. His work is as personal as it is bold, spanning everything from Afrofuturist anime to documentaries tackling youth violence.

Music, Movement & Creative Fusion

Under the name DJ Big Driis, Elba has headlined sets at Coachella, performed at the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, and launched music labels like 7Wallace and Sound International. His collaborations range from Taylor Swift to Skepta to Paul McCartney, blending his love of beats, storytelling, and social impact.

Activist & Change-Maker

Elba’s influence extends far beyond entertainment. As the founder of the Elba Hope Foundation, a UN Goodwill Ambassador, and a tireless campaigner against knife crime, he’s committed to empowering underserved communities and addressing systemic issues at the root. In 2024, he helped lead the UK’s national knife crime summit alongside the Prime Minister.

A Modern Icon

With Officer of the Order of the British Empire honors from the Queen, a seat on the British Film Institute’s board, and a resume that spans the arts, business, and activism, Idris Elba continues to redefine what it means to be a modern-day renaissance man. On screen, behind the decks, or delivering a keynote, his message is always the same: create boldly, lead authentically, and leave something meaningful behind.

How to Hire Idris Elba

Find out how to hire Idris Elba to appear at your next event. Contact the Mollie Plotkin Group to inquire about Idris Elba’s availability and cost. When booking Idris Elba for an event, we need to know the type of venue and location the event will take place. Idris Elba is a popular choice for corporate events, private events, and virtual events. So, you can click the Check Availability button or contact us and an MPG Idris Elba booking agent will get back to you within 48 hours.

Idris Elba Booking Price

How much to book Idris Elba depends on the type of event. So, the cost to hire Idris Elba for corporate or private events is available by contacting a Mollie Plotkin Group Agent. Notably, Idris Elba is available for conferences, festivals, private parties, and events. Just contact the Mollie Plotkin Group and tell the booking agent the proposed date, time, and location.

Contact For Availability

Fill out the form to find out when Idris Elba is available.

Upcoming Engagements

Our speakers are in high demand! View their upcoming events.

May 15 2025

IT-Security Inside 2025 – Keynote Speaker Keren Elazari – Zurich, Germany

AURA , Event Hall
No event found!

Key Audience Takeaways

Fireside Chat with Idris Elba: A Candid Conversation on Creativity, Identity, and Global Impact

This intimate fireside chat with Idris Elba pulls back the curtain on one of the most dynamic and influential figures in entertainment today. From his early days in East London to global fame as an award-winning actor, musician, and activist, Idris shares the stories behind his most iconic roles, his journey as a DJ and music producer, and his evolution as a film producer and changemaker.

Whether discussing the hustle of breaking into Hollywood, the challenges of being underestimated, or the responsibility of platform and purpose, Idris brings his trademark honesty, warmth, and wit to the conversation. He’ll also explore the driving forces behind his philanthropic work, creative ventures across Africa, and his push for representation and equity in the entertainment industry.

This conversation is perfect for audiences looking to be inspired by the real, unfiltered path of a global creative—and to gain rare insight into what it takes to succeed, lead, and give back in today’s world.

The Mollie Plotkin Group can also work with your team to tailor the conversation to your audience’s unique goals. At high-profile corporate summits, leadership retreats, or cultural events alike, Idris Elba leaves attendees motivated, connected, and inspired.

Potential Topics for Moderated Discussion Include:

  • From Hackney to Hollywood: Overcoming barriers and building a legacy
  • The Power of Identity in Performance and Leadership
  • Mental Health, Wellness, and the Role of Creative Expression
  • Making Space: Equity, Inclusion, and the Future of Storytelling
  • Advice for the Next Generation of Multi-Hyphenates

 

Resilience, Identity & Rising Above the Noise

From the streets of East London to the sets of Hollywood, Idris Elba shares his personal story of perseverance, self-discovery, and grit. He’ll explore how cultural identity, rejection, and self-doubt shaped his journey—and how anyone can turn obstacles into fuel.

Key takeaways:

  • Reframing failure as fuel
  • The role of identity in personal growth
  • Building resilience in high-pressure industries

 

Building Bridges: Diversity, Equity & Global Storytelling

A passionate advocate for representation, Elba discusses the importance of equity in storytelling, both on-screen and off. Drawing from his experience launching production companies and developing original content across Africa and the UK, he shares how businesses can drive better diversity and inclusion.

Key takeaways:

  • Why diverse teams create better outcomes
  • How to support talent from underrepresented backgrounds
  • Strategies for building inclusive creative pipelines

Contact For Availability

You're Our Priority