RATINGS: Cast & Crew

DOB: September 6, 1972.

Background: Idris Akuna Elba was born in London to a Sierra Leonean father and Ghanaian mother, starting his acting and musical career in high school.

Filmography: A veteran of numerous British and American productions, Elba is best known for his seminal role as Russell "Stringer" Bell on HBO's critically-acclaimed "The Wire", as well as his current role as Detective John Luther on BBC America's "Luther." Elba's career has skyrocketed of late, with him landing roles in "Thor (2011) and Ridley Scott's highly-anticipated "Alien" spinoff "Prometheus" (2012). He is also a hip-hop recording artist and DJ under the name DJ Big Driis.

Emmy Awards:

Best TV Movie/Miniseries Actor Nominations
"Luther" (2012); lost to Kevin Costner ("Hatfields and McCoys")
"Luther" (2011); lost to Barry Pepper ("The Kennedys")

Best Comedy Guest Actor Nomination
"The Big C" (2011) - episode "Blue-Eyed Iris"; lost to Justin Timberlake ("Saturday Night Live")

SAG Awards:

Best Film Ensemble Nomination
"American Gangster" (2007); lost to "No Country for Old Men"

Golden Globe Awards: Win - Best TV Movie/Miniseries Actor ("Luther," 2012)

Best TV Movie/Miniseries Actor Nomination
"Luther" (2011); lost to Al Pacino ("You Don't Know Jack")