Damson Idris

About

Adamson Alade-Bo “Damson” Idris (born 2 September 1991) is a British actor, entrepreneur and film producer. He began his career in theatre. He is best known for playing Franklin Saint in the FX crime drama Snowfall (2017–2023) and Joshua Pearce in Joseph Kosinski’s sports film F1.

Idris was born in Peckham, South East London, to a Nigerian family of Yoruba descent. He is the youngest of six children. His mother Philippa is an entrepreneur. He was named Adamson after his grandfather, Adam Alade Idris. Idris played football and dreamed of being “the next Lionel Messi.” He also played rugby, and in 2002, shook the hand of Queen Elizabeth II when his team took part in her Golden Jubilee.
Idris studied drama at Brunel University London. He completed a BA Honours degree in Theatre, Film & Television studies. He later received an Alumni Award for Outstanding Contribution to Culture and Creativity from the university in 2024. After graduating, Idris continued his training at Identity School of Acting in London alongside John Boyega, Letitia Wright, and Malachi Kirby.

At Brunel, Idris met actress Cathy Tyson, who encouraged him to meet Ade Solanke and audition…