Idris Elba Talks Fatherhood & Challenges Of Acting In Rolling Out

We’re about to see Idris Elba in a whole new light as he plays a deranged maniac killer in No Good Deed which hit theatres yesterday, but as the sexual chocolate cover man for Rolling Out Magazine, he’s just a regular guy balancing being a daddy, DJ, and director. Recently, our favourite British boo sat down with the Atlanta-based publication to talk about his new movie role, as well as share his love for his children. Peep a few highlights below:

What he’s found most challenging playing this character
“I don’t like the violence, as much … it’s difficult beating a woman [and] being in a fight with a woman. But, Taraji got some punches in once or twice,” he says laughingly.

On researching the psychology of criminals to prepare for the role
I wanted to find out from people who create these situations, what’s missing in their lives. You and I may have a conscious stop button, and we know what we’re doing is wrong … but this guy doesn’t have that. I wanted to research that psychosis to understand the people who are in jail for similar scenarios. My research involved looking into the mentality of someone like Colin, a troubled and anxious man on a mission. There are so many common denominators like their upbringing, neglected at child birth, abused as a child by their mum, dad or siblings, bullying, and they ended up having these similar personalities and didn’t have a conscience.

On what fatherhood is like for Elba in real life
I love, love children. I love being a dad; it’s one of the joys of life. In fact, you can take it all away from me tomorrow, but don’t take away my children.

The perception he wants his kids to have of him 
I just hope my children grow up saying my dad was my good friend and supporter … I was fair and just, helped them whenever they needed me to. And, that there was love. One thing I am very aware is that I love them and I love to embrace my children. My children know what it is to have a hug and a kiss, be cuddled and feel comfortable. My parents were not cuddlers or kissers, but I am.

On how he stays balanced 
I don’t pray. I don’t meditate. I do a lot of deep breathing whenever I get five or 10 minutes. It’s something great about oxygenating your body. It is a real good thing to do in moments of stress, weakness, tiredness … if you give yourself a little oxygen, fill your lungs to capacity and do it eight times, three to four times a day, it really helps. I am a multitasker. In my 24-hour day I am working 19. I get three to four hours of sleep, wake up and then I go again. I rejuvenate by drinking lots of water and doing my breathing exercises,” reveals Elba.

Photo Credit: Rolling Out