Biography

Damson Idris is a British-Nigerian actor known for his commanding screen presence, emotional depth, and striking versatility, establishing himself as one of Hollywood’s most dynamic leading men.

Idris most recently appears opposite Brad Pitt in Apple’s 2025 blockbuster F1: The Movie (2025), directed by Joseph Kosinski. Set in the high-octane world of professional racing, the film follows retired legend Sonny Hayes as he’s drawn back into the sport to lead a struggling Formula 1 team and mentor a gifted young hotshot Joshua Pearce, played by Idris. He will also star as Miles Davis in Miles & Juliette, directed by Bill Pohlad, chronicling the jazz icon’s transformative 1949 trip to Paris and his passionate romance with French singer Juliette Gréco. He has additionally wrapped production on Gina Prince-Bythewood’s upcoming adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling novel Children of Blood and Bone (2027) (2027) for Paramount, taking on the role of Prince Inan.

Idris first achieved international acclaim for his breakout role as Franklin Saint in FX’s critically acclaimed series Snowfall (2017) (2017-2023), created by the late John Singleton. His nuanced portrayal of an ambitious young drug kingpin earned him an NAACP Image Award and widespread praise, with many critics calling his six-season journey one of modern television’s most compelling character evolutions.

His diverse body of work includes leading roles in the dystopian sci-fi thriller Outside the Wire (2021) (2021), directed by Mikael Håfström, and in Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje’s semi-autobiographical drama Farming (2018) (2018), the story of a young Nigerian boy "farmed out" to a white British family. Idris has also appeared in Charlie Brooker’s acclaimed anthology series Smithereens (2019) (2011- ), Donald Glover’s surreal horror Swarm (2023) (2023), and the action thriller The Commuter (2018) (2018) directed by Jaume Collet-Serra.

Born and raised in London to Nigerian parents, Idris began his acting career on stage in Ade Solanke’s play Pandora’s Box. His talent and range quickly propelled him into film and television, where he continues to pursue bold, challenging, and emotionally resonant roles.

Beyond acting, Idris has become a notable force in fashion and philanthropy. He serves as a brand ambassador for Prada and is the founder of the jewelry brand DIDRIS. He also partners with Bono’s (RED) organization as a (RED)UCATOR, helping to raise awareness and vital funds in the fight against serious health conditions.
- IMDb mini biography by: LARAVIEW Public Relations