Anthony Horowitz Apologizes for Saying Idris Elba Too Street to Play James Bond

Posted on September 6, 2015

Author Anthony Horowitz has issued an apology for comments made in an interview about actor Idris Elba. Horowitz was discussing his new James Bond book, Trigger Mortis, with the Daily Mail and the discussion turned to who should play the next James Bond in the films. The interviewer brought up Idris Elba, but Horowitz doesn't think he's right for the part, saying he's "too street" to play the role.

This comment was widely criticized. Here's what he actually said in the interview: "Idris Elba is a terrific actor, but I can think of other black actors who would do it better [such as Adrian Lester, star of Hustle]. For me, Idris Elba is a bit too rough to play the part. It's not a colour issue. I think he is probably a bit too "street" for Bond. Is it a question of being suave? Yeah."

Horowitz apologized on Twitter, saying, I'm really sorry my comments about Idris Elba have caused offence. That wasn't my intention. I was asked in my interview if Idris Elba would make a good James Bond. In the article I expressed the opinion that 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 words. I am mortified to have caused offense."

As for Elba, he's taken the high road with the perfect response. On his Instagram page, he posted an excerpt from the Daily Mail article with the caption, "Always Keep Smiling!! It takes no energy and never hurts! Learned that from the Street!! :) #septemberstillloveyou." The photo he shared is of him in a tuxedo looking quite dapper on the Oscars red carpet. Well played.