British actor Damson Idris, most known for portraying Franklin Saint in Snowfall (2017–2023), has been generating buzz both on-screen and off—most notably after a candid appearance on Amelia Dimoldenberg’s oft-awkward yet popular Chicken Shop Date. During their fun encounter, Idris squashed any rumors that he’s a Method actor—he would call it overheated speculation.
In front of the iconic London chicken-and-chips background, Dimoldenberg playfully chimed, “You do Method acting”. Too hot to handle, however, Idris shrugged it off, saying in classic Damson fashion, “It’s hotter than the toenails of Satan in here,” then coming in with: “I mean, I’m not a Method actor, like what?” This all left Dimoldenberg with an amused, “OK, fine,” while audiences chuckled in contrast to the intense work Idris appears built for.
Then, they turned to Idris’ authentic, impressive American accent, which Idris was still using in character off-camera as Franklin Saint from Snowfall. Idris laughed while recollecting his family’s quick critique: “That was Franklin—you’re talking about Franklin. Very quickly they were like, ‘Shut up and talk normal!’’
From Snowfall to F1: On-Set Speed and Co-Star Camaraderie
Idris is descending from a small screen crime drama into the high-octane world of F1 with a high-budget Formula One feature opposite Brad Pitt. Idris plays Joshua “Noah” Pearce—a novice driver who joins the struggling APXGP Team alongside Pitt’s onboard driver, Sonny Hayes.
Director Joseph Kosinski—who created the popular film Top Gun: Maverick—along with producer Lewis Hamilton brought a vision of authenticity to the filming which took place at historic circuits including Silverstone, Spa, Abu Dhabi, Budapest and Monza, had the cast driving actual race cars fitted with IMAX cameras.
That authenticity is part of the film’s impact: “the most realistic, grounded racing movie ever made,” Kosinski told GQ.
When filming ended in Abu Dhabi, Idris disclosed that he had to relearn how to strap himself in using a racing suit; he also had some scares, including a spin-out at the Hungarian Grand Prix. However, despite those “dark moments” he clearly enjoyed the experience and expresses gratitude to F1 fans and drivers for their hospitality.
Fast Cars and Finer Moments
While at the F1 premiere in New York City on June 16, Idris mentioned how the experience changed his real-life driving style.
“I’m not going to lie. It actually made me drive a lot safely. I have so much respect for F1 drivers and the speeds and pressures they work under… now… I’m definitely cruising, and just minding my business,” he told People.
Idris also lauded Pitt, calling him “the most humble dude and such a great actor” and noted their off-screen camaraderie was honest and supportive. They’d have a good laugh together after takes: a more sincere mentorship than a competitive journey.
Laughable ‘Oops’ Moment with Brad Pitt
Not everything about the shoot was smooth sailing. Idris disclosed on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert that he had delivered a line angrily during one of the takes with Pitt and inadvertently spat in Pitt’s face. He was horrified because he thought, “I was going to lose my job”—but Pitt was all class and they carried on.
This incident turned out to be a joking, relatable story amidst Idris’s ascendant notoriety as a pleasurable, professional, rising star—even when he might have fit next to Tinseltown royalty..
A Breakout Role—and Beyond
Damson Idris (b. London, 1991) studied drama at Brunel University before training at Identity School of Acting. He first gained traction with Snowfall, and excited critics and awards panels with his portrayal of Franklin Saint.
F1—which released globally on June 27—has drawn comparisons to Top Gun: Maverick in the visceral nature of its execution, and has fast-tracked Idris into headline-making performances. Critics rave over the allowed thrills, and Idris is finally getting the recognition as a fast-rising talent in Hollywood.
As for what is next, Idris is set for major projects to come, like a Miles Davis biopic (Miles & Juliette) and Children of Blood and Bone—along with other business ventures in jewelry and production.
Putting It All in Gear
Damson Idris has gone from TV’s Snowfall to glamorous high-octane film stardom forever displaying his charm (and speed) both in metal and meat shops. He is refreshingly honest about acting: there is no method acting – just talent, humility, a genuine page and moments of surprise – like accidentally spitting on Brad Pitt.
His experience driving real F1 cars (teaches you caution – and respect) added to his on-screen presence. Now that F1 has had every corner of the world, Idris is shifting through the gears of a significant career breakthrough. With more forthcoming roles and side projects to focus on, he hopes to stay on track with his informed authenticity, authentic performances – maybe for a while staying out the chicken shops.
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