He's the ruthlessly ingenious drug lord 'Stringer' Bell in The Wire, the obsessive Detective Chief Inspector in Luther, and the star of the long-awaited biopic of Nelson Mandela. Idris Elba inhabits each role as if he were born to play it, and approaches each performance as if it were his last. But what of the man himself?

In this, the first biography of the onscreen legend, Nadia Cohen reveals Idris's life behind the lens, exploring just what it is that makes him so ambitious, adaptable and endlessly watchable.

From humble beginnings, a second-generation immigrant born in Hackney, London, Idris set up his own DJ company at the age of 14 and, encouraged by his drama teacher to pursue his natural talent, won a place at the National Youth Music Theatre on leaving school.

Now a world-class rapper and DJ, as well as an actor and international pin-up, his work ethic is impressive, but not more so than his enthusiasm for everything he does. From bit parts to blockbusters, East London to LA, his career has reached dizzying heights. So, now what, Idris?