By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
Damson Idris, a British-Nigerian actor, is set to star in the upcoming F1 movie alongside Brad Pitt. Over the past couple of months, the movie has garnered interest from movie fans, hyping the movie’s June 27, 2025, release.
Most recently, his appearance on the red carpet at the 2025 Met Gala was one of many favourites. He appeared in a fully kitted Formula 1 custom before ripping it out on the red carpet to reveal a rose red suit designed by Tommy Hilfiger.
Born in South East London, Idris has come a long way from his humble beginnings to become one of Hollywood’s rising stars. At 33 years old, he has nearly 20 acting credits to his name. His role in the F1 movie, directed by Joseph Kosinski for Apple TV, is one of his most high-profile projects yet. He stars with Academy Award-winning actors like Brad Pitt and Javier Bardem.
From South East London to Hollywood
Idris grew up in a small family home in Peckham, South East London. His mother, Philippa Idris, a Nigerian entrepreneur from Oyo State, raised him and his five siblings on her own. The family faced economic struggles but stayed close-knit. Idris learned the value of hard work from his mother. His siblings pursued careers in law, business, and IT. Idris chose a different path. He dreamed of becoming a professional athlete, playing soccer and rugby; however, a knee injury and the competitive nature of sports led him to focus on acting instead.
Education and Early Career
Idris attended Brunel University of London. He studied theatre, film, and television there. He also trained at the Identity School of Acting. This school has produced other actors like John Boyega, another British Nigerian actor and Letitia Wright from the Marvel Black Panther film. His early acting roles were in UK television shows. He appeared in Miranda in 2013, Doctors in 2015, and Casualty in 2015. These roles helped him build his skills and gain attention in the industry.
Breakthrough Role in Snowfall
In 2016, Idris auditioned for the FX series Snowfall. He landed the lead role of Franklin Saint, a young drug dealer in 1980s Los Angeles. To prepare, he spent months perfecting his American accent. He worked with South Central rapper WC to learn the character. Snowfall ran for six seasons. It became his signature role and earned him critical acclaim globally.
Other Notable Works
Idris has appeared in several films besides Snowfall. He starred in City of Tiny Lights in 2016, a thriller with Riz Ahmed. He acted in Megan Leavey in 2017, a drama with Kate Mara. In 2017, he played Enitan in Farming, a story directed by Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje. His performance in Farming won him the Best Performance award at the Edinburgh Film Festival. He also co-starred in Outside the Wire in 2021, a Netflix sci-fi film with Anthony Mackie.
Passion for Cars and Luxury Living
Idris loves cars. He owns several luxury vehicles, including a Mercedes-AMG GT and a Porsche 911 GTS. His passion for cars fits his role in the F1 movie. He plays Joshua Pearce, a character in the world of Formula 1 racing. The movie was filmed in places like Abu Dhabi and the U.K.’s Silverstone circuit. Idris called the experience life-changing. In 2021, he bought a mansion in Studio City, Los Angeles. The 4,715-square-foot home cost nearly $4 million.
Cultural Roots and Identity
Idris was born in London but has deep Nigerian roots. His parents came from Nigeria to the U.K., and he speaks Yoruba and connects to his heritage through his work. His bicultural identity helps him bring authenticity to his acting.
Upcoming Role in F1 Movie
In the F1 movie, Idris stars with Brad Pitt. The story explores the world of Formula 1 racing. Apple TV produces the film, which features racing scenes and a strong cast. Idris plays Joshua Pearce, marking a key point in his career. The movie is directed by Joseph Kosinski, who also produced the film alongside Brad Pitt, Formula 1 legend Lewis Hamilton (who also has Nigerian roots), among others.
According to an interview, he said while working on set for the film, he spent long hours in a hot car, describing how intense the movie scene was during shoots.