Idris Elba [1] can now add "author" to his CV as the actor just announced a multibook deal with HarperCollins for children everywhere. Inspired by his daughter, Elba will release a range of children's books in 2022 that will include both picture books and fiction stories.

"I feel privileged to have the opportunity to bring stories inspired by my daughter to life with my incredible partner Robyn Charteris, and the powerhouse team at HarperCollins," Elba shared on Twitter. Charteris has already won a BAFTA award [2] for a children's drama series on CBBC, she worked at Mattel Toys and Lego, and she has a master's degree in playwriting, so it's safe to say that Elba is in good hands.

Ann-Janine Murtagh, the executive publisher at HarperCollins Children's Books UK, said of the deal: "Idris Elba is one of the most iconic and multi-talented creatives of his generation and I am delighted that he is joining the HarperCollins Children's Books list. From the outset, Idris had a very clear vision of the characters and stories he has imagined, and is passionate about creating books that will appeal to all children."

We will update this space as we receive more details on Elba's new range of children's books.

Time to share the news that my new range of children's books will be publishing across the globe with @HarperCollinsCh [3] @HarperChildrens [4]
Coming 2022 #idriskidsbooks22 [5]

Photo Maarten de Boer/Contour by Getty Images pic.twitter.com/1xhtBF9rSe [6]

— Idris Elba (@idriselba) March 16, 2021 [7]