Best known globally for his career in film, television and music, Idris Elba’s inclusion in the honours list reflects his growing focus on social-impact work centred on youth support and violence prevention in the UK.

In 2025, Elba spearheaded the BBC documentary Idris Elba: Our Knife Crime Crisis, which examined the scale and consequences of knife crime across the country. The programme brought together bereaved families, former offenders, youth workers, police and policymakers, centring lived experience while exploring the social conditions that often underpin youth violence, including exclusion, trauma and lack of opportunity.

The documentary mainly focused on prevention and long-term solutions, rather than appealing to sensationalist rhetoric. 

“I hope we can do more to draw attention to the importance of sustained, practical support for young people and to the responsibility we all share to help them find an alternative to violence.”

Elba’s personal connection to the issue, having grown up in East London during a period when violence was a persistent threat,  added personal depth to the film’s urgency and tone.

Beyond broadcasting, Elba has taken an active role in advocacy and public campaigning. He has supported the “Don’t Stop Your Future” initiative, which highlights the human cost of knife crime, and has worked alongside charities, community organisations and bereaved families to amplify calls for early intervention and youth support. He has also engaged with national leaders and policymakers to encourage coordinated responses to youth violence.

Much of this work is supported through the Elba Hope Foundation, which Elba co-founded with his wife, Sabrina Dhowre Elba. The foundation focuses on youth empowerment through education, skills development and economic opportunity, particularly within marginalised communities. Its work reflects Elba’s consistent message that addressing structural inequality is central to preventing violence.

Elba’s inclusion in the New Year Honours list recognises this broader commitment to public service, acknowledging a career that has increasingly used its platform to address social issues and support preventative work with young people.

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