Writer Apologizes for “Too Street” Comment About Idris Elba

By: Antoinette Alston, contributing intern

Remarks made by Anthony Horowitz, the new writer of James Bond book, “Trigger Mortis” and honoree of Ian Fleming’s James Bond estate, offended many black people with his racist statement about Idris Elba.

During an interview with the Daily Mail, Horowitz said Elba is “probably a bit too ‘street’ for Bond. Is it a question of being suave? Yeah.”

Elba has long been the number one choice of the fans to be the first black James Bond. Some people believe the comment Horowitz made about Elba as being “too street” is code for being “too black.” Horowitz recently issued a statement apologizing to everyone who was offended by his remarks on his Twitter saying:

Anthony Horowitz Verified account ‏@AnthonyHorowitz

“I’m really sorry my comments about Idris Elba have caused offence. That wasn’t my intention. I was asked in my interview if Idris Elba would make a good James Bond. In the article I expressed the opinion that to my mind Adrian Lester would be a better choice but I’m a writer not a casting director so what do I know? Clumsily, I chose the word ‘street’ as Elba’ gritty portrayal of DCI John Luther was in my mind but I admit it was a poor choice of word. I am mortified to have caused offence.”

Elba, on the other hand, seemed to not be bothered by all the hype around his name when a video post of Elba and Chris Pine regarding the new star Trek movie surfaced on Twitter:

Star Trek Verified account ‏@StarTrekMovie

Want to be in Star Trek Beyond? Chris Pine & @IdrisElba invite you from set, ENTER now ➤ http://bit.ly/1IPQpmY