Actor Damson Idris’ Journey from Peckham to Prada

In Peckham, London, among the liveliness of a Nigerian home, actor Damson Idris grew up surrounded by traditions that valued education and appreciated fashion. This background shaped Idris into the versatile actor that has captivated audiences in FX’s acclaimed series Snowfall and beyond. Nailing the South Central Los Angeles accent in his compelling performance as Franklin Saint, directed by the late John Singleton, marked his ascent as a star and he’s been unstoppable ever since. Whether it was his viral moment winning the 2024 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series or his surprising walk during Prada, Damson has left an indelible mark in the entertainment industry with his ability to transform into new characters for productions like Swarm, Black Mirror, and Farming. “Style and fashion filter into everything, and performance is even more important for me as I like to play characters that are transformative where I can disappear, ” says Idris, which has caught the attention of brands like Calvin Klein and Zegna, and ultimately led to his most recent coveted role as a Prada brand ambassador. He debuted on the runway for their F/W 22 men’s show and collaborated with photographers like David Sims and Willy Vanderperre for the Italian luxury house’s campaigns. For his second Met Gala attendance, when asked about which brand he was wearing, his quip “Prada, Darling” took the internet by storm once again, highlighting his ability to entertain audiences on-screen and off. Models.com spoke with Idris at The Carlyle to discuss his upcoming role in the still-untitled F1 movie by Joseph Kosinski, his current life chapter, and the freedom that comes with creative collaboration.