Idris Elba Opens Up On Black Men Not Being Described As 'Sexy'

Sex symbol status is usually conferred by popular tabloids, glossy magazines and entertainment shows. However, when it comes to characterizing black actors as "sexy," the chances are very slim, according to Idris Elba.

The "Thor" star recently opened up on the topic of why black men are never described as "sexy" in mainstream America. Elba professed during a video interview with the Life Files:

"Black men, we're never called sexy. We’re called athletic, intense, we’re described as being the strong type, the silent type. But we’re never really described as being sexy… in general the word sexy doesn't apply to black men, particularly ... The word has been thrown at me a few times so if I have to say I own it, fine."

As previously reported, beginning August 17 the Golden Globe-nominated actor will host and produce BBC America's new drama franchise "Dramaville," which will include three BBC original series. The London native will resume his role as John Luther on October 5 when the second season of BBC’s "Luther" kicks off.

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Comments

[endjunk09]

05:20 PM on 10/02/2011

The old saying is "Tall, dark and handsome!" Not "Average, blonde, and pale."

[booksnstuff]

12:38 PM on 09/30/2011

This man is ABSOLUTELY SEXY! Google images of him and melt.

[Amy RobinsonBrammer]

07:23 PM on 08/27/2011

Dear Idris,
Please find me...I will tell you just how sexy I think you are!!! I would have to go outside of my marriage vows if I ever had the opportunity to have you :)
Love,
Me :)

[ThomasTrom]

10:34 AM on 08/25/2011

I'm black. I was taught three things. To be black, you need three things as a guy. Strength, Morality and Intelligence. Which is OK for me and my brother who weight train - and no, we don't take any of those weight gain formula supplements, drugs or any of the other rubbish. We have to be true to ourselves. Dark skin, brown/dark eyes and grizzly hair is not everyone's cup of tea. Personally, I like the fact that black males are not glamorized in the media. Look, we're guys. We don't need the feminine glamorization that females get, the labels of being sexy, the excessive photography and posing...it's a joke.

[TresJolie7]

08:56 PM on 08/17/2011

hehe! My mom is in love with him.

[mw-maryland]

08:06 PM on 08/17/2011

Totally untrue! There are too many of you around!

[CLSayles]

07:32 PM on 08/17/2011

Untrue, Sir. I am a sexy MF and I get told that daily. LOL!!!

[Quai DOrsay]

10:34 AM on 08/29/2011

Just by saying that, I already find u sexy ... Keep it up ... Yes I m a Sexy Mofo too ...Real recognize real ...F&F

[Contact1972]

05:09 PM on 08/17/2011

Idris-you are totally sexy!

[leonathor3]

04:45 PM on 08/17/2011

Idris, baby, you are so wrong. The very first time I saw you on in a movie, which I happened to be watching with my husband, I nearly jumped out of my chair. It has been a long time since I'd seen a man white or black as fine and sexy as you. Just because you may not hear it, don't you for one minute think that women are not thinking it, black or white. I don't know how long ago the picture with you and the little "Bring It On" girl was made, but that was the first time I saw you, and have been looking for you in movie ever since. You breath sex. Sweetheart, if black men were not sexy, then why are there so few left? Women of other color are snapping you up like a Gucci bargain sail.

[Quai DOrsay]

10:35 AM on 08/29/2011

Hope Your hubby doesnt read your comment LOL ... But Thanks for keeping it Real

[bunsbestgirl]

04:05 PM on 08/17/2011

Here ya go, Idris - YOUR ARE SEXY!!!!!

[DrSnuggles]

03:39 PM on 08/17/2011

I think I could take this more seriously if it came from anyone else...

"The word has been thrown at me a few times...."

Suuuurrreeee, just a few huh?

[Aesthete]

03:14 PM on 08/17/2011

The sexiness of the black male is muted in films with the possible exception of Denzel Washington and perhaps one or two others. Real life is quite another matter. I have brothers and other male relatives who are (were) pursued by females of every race. A gorgeous teenaged nephew was stalked by a women 10 years his senior.

[lawgrrl]

02:54 PM on 08/17/2011

Sexy.

[ikj]

02:16 PM on 08/17/2011

pay attention ppl. he said black men aren't labeled sexy "in a script." he's talking about the film industry in general and the way black men are represented, and not about himself alone or the specific cases like Denzel. they're exceptions to the rule. 1 or 2 brothas per generation labeled sexy is definitely on the low side.

[paulwl]

01:52 PM on 08/17/2011

Man, just look at my mirror any day of the week and you will see 'your God's gift' to womankind!
References upon request! Haters need not reply(there are just a few!). I'm so sexy I make love to myself! My theme song: Sexual(chocolate) Healing . . .just like jump'in a broom! I.E., it's all in the mind.