BET Awards 2024: Hidden Gems: 5 Under-the-Radar Performances from Damson Idris
At the BET Awards 2023, Damson Idris clinched the coveted “Best Actor” award, triumphing over a formidable lineup of contenders such as Amin Joseph, Brian Tyree Henry, Donald Glover, Michael B. Jordan, Academy Award-winner Daniel Kaluuya, and emerging talent Demetrius “Lil Meech” Flenory Jr.
From navigating the treacherous streets of South Central Los Angeles as the ambitious drug dealer Franklin Saint in Snowfall to captivating audiences with his portrayal of a troubled young man in Farming, the British star has proven himself as a versatile and compelling actor.
As we gear up for the BET Awards 2024 and the return of BET Experience 2024, Presented by Walmart, check out five under-the-radar performances from last year’s award winner. Also, be sure to check into Culture’s biggest night when it airs on Sunday, June 30, at 8 PM/ET in Las Angeles, CA. For BET Experience, Presented by Walmart tickets, click here.
“Farming”
Based on real-life experiences, the 2018 film "Farming" recounts the journey of a young Nigerian child sent by his parents to live with a white British family, aiming for improved opportunities. However, his path diverges as he becomes involved with a gang of white skinheads.
“Black Mirror”
Idris appeared surprisedly in season five, episode two of Netflix’s critically acclaimed anthology Black Mirror titled “Smithereens.” The actor starred as Jaden, an intern at a tech company kidnapped by a mysterious Uber driver seeking justice. The episode also guest-starred Topher Grace, Andrew Scott, and Daniel Ings.
“Hiding in the Light”
In 2011, a young Idris starred in a short film “Hiding in the Light.” The sci-fi thriller from director Andrew Bury follows students who discover their new teacher isn’t who they appear to be. The movie is about 15 minutes and gives fans an early glimpse into the star’s burgeoning talent.
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“Outside the Wire”
Idris teamed up with Hollywood veteran Anthony Mackie for Netflix's 2021 sci-fi action film “Outside the Wire.” The actor portrays drone pilot Lt. Thomas Harp, tasked to stop a global catastrophe with help from android officer Leo, played by Mackie.
“The Twilight Zone”
In 2019, Idris had a significant presence in the sci-fi genre, securing roles in both "Black Mirror" and the Jordan Peele-directed reboot of "The Twilight Zone." The actor appeared in an episode titled "Replay," the third installment of the first season. The episode revolves around a mother, portrayed by actress Sanaa Lathan, who attempts to use an old camcorder capable of rewinding time to safeguard the future of her college-bound son.
Tune in to the BET Awards 2024 on Sunday, June 30 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET.