Idris Elba to steer children away from knife crime through boxing training camp in new TV show

Idris Elba is helping to fight knife crime in his latest project as he uses a boxing training camp to steer children away from street violence.

The actor, 47, is set to work with youngsters from across the UK for a new TV series which will see him try to help those ‘whose circumstances around their upbringing have not given them the opportunities to make the right choices.’

The four-part series, Idris Elba’s Fight School, will air on BBC2 next year and will see what happens when people are given a ‘fighting chance’ to transform their lives. 

The new show will see the seven girls and boys live and train together for six months, where they will learn ‘discipline, focus and determination.’

Speaking about his new project, Idris told The Mirror: ‘I see history constantly repeating itself and can empathise with these kids. I believe there is a better way to teach people that you don’t need knives to protect yourself.’

The star, who has previously trained as a professional kickboxer, added: ‘It’s a proven fact that in urban areas where fight schools open violent crime drops dramatically which is why I wanted to do this project, in hope that we can change people’s lives.

‘I want this project to be an ongoing presence that will continue to provide support and education for the community for years to come.’ 

Meanwhile, Michael Jochnowitz, BBC commissioning editor said: ‘Idris Elba’s passion and enthusiasm for this project meant we simply had to join him on this very personal quest to help transform futures and give young people hope. 

Idris’ new new show comes weeks after he confirmed his hit BBC series Luther will be made into a feature-length film.

Speaking to Digital Spy and other press on the back of his BAFTA win late last month, the actor teased the upcoming flick as he remarked: ‘the sky is the limit.’ 

The crime drama finished its fifth series back in January 2019, following a thrilling week-long event which saw all four episodes air back-to-back.

The show ended on a cliffhanger, leaving fans wondering whether a movie version could be on the cards.

And fresh from picking up his Special Award at the very first virtual Virgin Media BAFTA TV Awards 2020, Idris confirmed that the film will be happening. 

He said: ‘I’ve maintained that I’d like to see [Luther] come to a film.

‘That’s what I think we’re headed towards, is a film. I’m looking forward to making that happen.’

The star then cemented the news as he added: ‘It is happening!’ 

He then further opened up about the series making a transition from the small screen to the big screen as he teased big things for the flick.

He added: ‘With a film, the sky is the limit. Obviously, you can be a little bit more bold in the storylines, maybe international, a little bit sort of up the scale. But John Luther is always going to be John Luther.’