Damson Idris found himself trying to remain focused amid the roaring excitement of a Formula One race—a tough task when the atmosphere is electrifying. The British-Nigerian actor was deeply immersed in filming “F1,” a high-speed summer movie alongside Hollywood heavyweight Brad Pitt, as they shot on some of the world’s most renowned racetracks. Despite Idris enjoying a rising profile thanks to his role in the FX series “Snowfall” for six seasons, sharing the spotlight with world-famous Formula One drivers and an iconic movie star brings a fresh perspective. He anticipated slipping by unnoticed. However, fans in the audience were not only calling his name but also shouting out “Franklin Saint,” the name of his character from “Snowfall.”
“It’s amusing because I still perceive myself as an unknown young actor,” Idris, 33, remarked in a recent interview.
Accelerating to the next phase, anonymity seems left behind for Idris. His appearance at the Met Gala in May caused quite a stir, with him donning a complete racing suit branded with “F1’s” fictional team APXGP and a helmet embellished with Swarovski crystals. His theatrical entrance, followed by a second look, became one of the event’s most discussed moments. With “F1” slated to release worldwide on Friday, expectations are that Idris will soon hear people calling out “Joshua Pearce”—his character in the film, a rookie eager to prove his worth amidst seasoned pros.
“People will see him embrace this character and line up against a major movie icon,” said filmmaker Joseph Kosinski. “Damson is hugely talented, and it feels like we’re witnessing the start of an incredible journey.”
Idris is drawn to projects that challenge him and roles vastly different from himself and past portrayals. Joshua Pearce was that challenge as Idris prepped to say goodbye to “Snowfall’s” Franklin Saint. After reading the “F1” script, the character seemed to even inhabit his dreams. “I thought, ‘No one’s going to play this part like me.’ I wrote to Joe (Kosinski) explaining just this,” Idris shared. Upon getting behind the wheel for the first time, Idris realized he was fully invested in the film.
Fully committed at 180 mph, “F1” shooting required Idris and Pitt to master driving at thrilling speeds. Months of intensive driver training with stunt professionals Luciano Bacheta and Craig Dolby, along with physical prep to endure the car’s G-forces, were essential. Throughout filming, sometimes occurring during actual races, they raced with cameras mounted on vehicles. Kosinski acknowledged that every time Idri’s or Pitt’s face appears, they are genuinely driving.
Idris relished the authenticity, “It’s incredible. It feels much quicker in reality and appears rapid on screen as well. The stakes are high with every split-second choice, but I couldn’t imagine shooting this any other way.”
“F1” encapsulates life’s art aspect, with a rising star aligning with a seasoned pro. The movie vividly illustrates their tense dynamic—mentorship entwined with rivalry—but Idris, in contrast to his character, eagerly absorbs wisdom from his peers, including producers, director Kosinski, and co-stars such as Pitt and Javier Bardem. “Every day, I ask for guidance,” he admitted.
Idris’ acting journey wasn’t initially on his career radar. Like many in South London, he aspired to be a soccer player until he realized he wouldn’t match Lionel Messi’s greatness. He humorously admits that Messi’s prowess led him to rethink his dreams.
Idris’ passion for acting developed earnestly, studying drama and honing his craft at London’s Identity School of Acting. Over the decade since debuting in Ade Solanke’s “Pandora’s Box,” Idris has been all in, taking meaningful strides in his career.
Recently filming “Children of Bone and Blood” in Cape Town, South Africa, alongside stars like Viola Davis and Cynthia Erivo, Idris finds himself in significant roles within significant productions. Up next, he’s set to embody jazz legend Miles Davis in a biopic. In the meantime, he’s also stepping into new ventures, launching a jewelry line and diving into producing with FX Networks.
Much like his role in “F1,” he’s learning to focus amid the surrounding buzz. “It’s crucial to remain grounded and remember your origins,” Idris stated. Looking ahead, he feels fortunate and anticipates what lies in store. “I’m excited, respectful of the opportunity, and eager for the journey ahead,” he concluded.