Golden Globe and SAG-winning actor, musician, filmmaker, and activist Idris Elba has landed a global multi-book deal with HarperCollins to publish a number of books for young readers. Launching in 2022, the titles will include picture books and fiction created by Elba and co-author Robyn Charteris.
Elba said in a statement, “I feel privileged to have the opportunity to bring stories inspired by my daughter to life with my incredible partner Robyn Charteris, and the powerhouse team at HarperCollins.”
The actor is known for playing Stringer Bell in HBO’s The Wire. In 2010, Elba appeared in the titular role in the BBC mini-series Luther, for which he received a Golden Globe, SAG Award, and four Emmy nominations. His film credits include American Gangster, Mandela: The Long Walk to Freedom, Beasts of No Nation, and the Oscar-nominated Molly’s Game. He will also appear in the upcoming Netflix film Concrete Cowboy, which he also produced, and The Suicide Squad 2. Elba made his feature-film directorial debut at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival with Yardie, and in 2013 he founded his production company, Green Door Pictures, with an emphasis on diversity.
Charteris has written live-action drama, pre-school and animation programs for BBC, Channel 4, the Jim Henson Company, and Endemol, as well as educational theater for schools.
Crystal Mahey-Morgan at OWN IT! Entertainment Ltd. sold world rights to Ann-Janine Murtagh, executive publisher at HarperCollins Children’s Books UK, and Suzanne Murphy, president and publisher of HCCB US, in a U.K./U.S. co-publication deal.
