Damson Idris as Joshua

Damson Idris is a British actor who has quickly become one of the most compelling talents of his generation, earning international acclaim for his intense and nuanced performances. Born on September 2, 1991, in Peckham, South London, Idris is the youngest of six children in a Nigerian family. His early life in a working-class household instilled in him a strong work ethic and resilience that would later define his career. Initially, Idris aspired to become a professional football player, even playing rugby and dreaming of joining a major league. However, a chance encounter with acting during his time at Brunel University London, where he studied Theatre, Film & Television Studies, changed the course of his life.

Idris’s breakthrough came with his gripping portrayal of Franklin Saint in FX’s critically acclaimed crime drama Snowfall, created by the late John Singleton. His performance as a young drug kingpin navigating the crack epidemic of 1980s Los Angeles showcased his remarkable ability to balance vulnerability and ferocity, drawing widespread praise from critics and audiences alike. Idris’s seamless mastery of an American accent stunned many, cementing his reputation as a versatile actor capable of disappearing into complex roles.

Beyond Snowfall, Damson Idris has demonstrated impressive range in films such as Farming (2018), where he delivered a powerful performance as Enitan, a Nigerian boy raised by a white working-class family in the UK, grappling with identity and racism. He has also starred in the Netflix sci-fi action film Outside the Wire (2021) alongside Anthony Mackie, proving his capacity for leading roles in big-budget productions. Idris’s charisma and commitment to authentic storytelling have made him a standout in both television and cinema.

In addition to his screen work, Idris has been recognized for his contributions to diversifying the entertainment industry and has emerged as an advocate for greater representation of Black and African voices in film and television. His grounded personality, combined with his relentless dedication to his craft, has earned him admiration not only from fans but also from peers within the industry. Damson Idris continues to take on challenging roles, bringing intensity, depth, and empathy to each performance, making him one of the most exciting actors to watch in contemporary cinema.