Childhood and Education Journey of Idris Elba in Timeline

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Idris Elba. A timeline of key moments.

Idris Elba, an English actor and musician, has garnered significant acclaim, including a Golden Globe Award and multiple BAFTA and Emmy nominations. Recognized for his influence, he was featured in the Time 100 list. Elba's filmography boasts substantial commercial success, with his movies collectively earning over $9.8 billion worldwide, positioning him among the highest-grossing actors.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1976: Foundation of Prince's Trust

In 1976, Prince Charles founded The Prince's Trust, a UK youth charity, which Elba credits with helping begin his career.

1999: Marriage to Hanne "Kim" Nørgaard

In 1999, Elba married Danish stylist Hanne "Kim" Nørgaard.

2003: Divorce from Hanne "Kim" Nørgaard

In 2003, Elba divorced from Danish stylist Hanne "Kim" Nørgaard.

2006: Marriage to Sonya Nicole Hamlin

In 2006, Elba married American real estate lawyer Sonya Nicole Hamlin for four months.

2013: Essence's Sexiest Man of the Year

Elba was named Essence's annual Sexiest Man of the Year in 2013.

October 2014: MOBO Inspiration Award

In October 2014, Elba was presented with a MOBO Inspiration Award.

2015: Land Speed Record

In 2015, as part of his Discovery Channel miniseries Idris Elba: No Limits, Elba broke the land speed record for the Pendine Sands "Flying Mile" course.

2016: Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)

In the 2016 New Year Honours, Elba was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to drama.

2017: "Rear of the Year" Award

In 2017, Elba won the male title for the "Rear of the Year" award in Britain.

2017: Relationship with Sabrina Dhowre

In early 2017, Elba began a relationship with Canadian model and businesswoman Sabrina Dhowre.

February 2018: Engagement to Sabrina Dhowre

On 10 February 2018, Elba became engaged to Canadian model and businesswoman Sabrina Dhowre during a screening of his film Yardie.

2018: People's Sexiest Man Alive

Elba was named People's Sexiest Man Alive in 2018.

April 2019: Marriage to Sabrina Dhowre

On 26 April 2019, Elba married Canadian model and businesswoman Sabrina Dhowre in Marrakesh.

2024: Attended UK Government Knife Crime Summit

In 2024, Elba attended the UK government's inaugural knife crime summit alongside Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, emphasizing the importance of action.