Idris Elba will be returning with his next project in the near future and it may not be in the fashion you expect. Announced on October 4th of last year, Elba will be starring in a television comedy series titled, In the Long Run, which will be loosely based on his childhood. The comedy, which will air in the United Kingdom beginning March 29th, gave viewers a first look at the series earlier today.
Set in the mid-1980’s, the series will chronicle the lives of Walter and Evelyn Easmon, a married couple, who have migrated from Sierra Leone to London, in hopes of creating a better life for their son, Akuna. With steady jobs such as make-up saleswomen and factory worker, the Easmon’s are happy to be making a nice living in London and sending money home to Sierra Leone. However, that way of life will be challenged when Walter’s brother, Valentine, comes to stay with the Easmons, changing their way of life and igniting a passion for music in Akuna.
The series will air on Sky 1 and will be executive produced by Idris Elba and Gina Carter with Cecile Emeke directing. Elba will also star in the series, playing the role of Walter, with a supporting cast that includes British comedian, Bill Bailey, EastEnder’s Kellie Shirley and child actor, Mattie Boys.
Stay tuned for updates about trailers, where you can watch the show in the states and more.
