Idris Elba heading to Cannes with Content

TV and film star Idris Elba is heading to MIPTV to promote Mandela, My Dad and Me, his personal journey doc.

The doc is being sold internationally by Content Media, which will host a reception for buyers with Elba and the production team.

No broadcaster is attached to Mandela, My Dad and Me yet, which is being made by Elba’s prodco Green Door Pictures, UK indie Woodcut Media and Endemol Shine Group regional division Shine North.

The show will follow the Luther and Wire star as he connects with South African music culture by way of preparing for his starring role in Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom.

It also covers how the star deals with the death of his father, who passed away at the same time.

Elba said: “I am delighted to be joining the production and sales teams at MIPTV. This was an incredibly fulfilling project for me – it was difficult at times but ultimately it was a hugely rewarding experience – and I hope broadcasters and international audiences will enjoy my journey in Mandela, My Dad and Me.”

The actor has had leading roles in UK and US TV dramas including The Wire and Luther. His feature work includes Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, sci-fi movie Prometheus and action offering Pacific Rim.

Greg Phillips, president at Content Television, added: “We’re confident this emotionally moving story will resonate exceptionally well with international audiences, and are honoured to welcome Idris to Cannes to introduce Mandela, My Dad and Me to our global clients as it makes its international debut.”