Damson Idris: From F1 to Miles Davis – Charting His Rising Hollywood Career

Damson Idris is setting his sights on a career trajectory marked by lasting impact, a lesson he attributes to a key takeaway from his recent collaboration with Brad Pitt. While promoting F1 at the 2026 Academy Awards, Idris shared insights into his approach to choosing roles and the guidance he received from the veteran actor.

Speaking with Zuri Hall on Live from E!: Oscars 2026, Idris articulated a shift in perspective. “This is a long game,” he explained. “Ups and downs. [He has taught me:] Don’t chase moments, chase legacy. And I’m doing that with the roles that I play. F1 is just the start.” This philosophy appears to be informing his upcoming projects, including a highly anticipated portrayal of music icon Miles Davis.

F1: A Collaborative Effort and a Learning Experience

F1, nominated for a Best Picture Oscar, stars Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes, a seasoned driver coaxed out of retirement to mentor the rising talent of Joshua Pearce, played by Idris. The film, partially shot in Florida, benefited from the expertise of Lewis Hamilton, the first and only Black driver in Formula 1 history, who served as a producer to ensure technical accuracy. Pitt emphasized the collaborative spirit behind the project, noting that “Everyone has had a hand honing this thing,” and highlighting Hamilton’s crucial “smell test” to validate the film’s authenticity. Daytona Beach News-Journal reported on the film’s production and the dedication to realism.

The commitment to authenticity extended to the driving sequences themselves. Pitt revealed that he and Idris genuinely learned to operate the F1 vehicles, moving beyond simulated environments. “I think by the time we obtain to the movie, it’s undeniable that we are driving the cars,” Pitt stated. “We’re not sitting on a sound stage with wind machines…I don’t know where I head from here. You can’t compete with this experience.”

Beyond the Racetrack: Idris’s Expanding Portfolio

Idris’s momentum extends beyond F1. He is slated to portray Miles Davis in an upcoming biopic, a role that represents a significant step in his career. He as well mentioned excitement about projects like Children of Blood and Bone, signaling a diverse range of roles he’s actively pursuing. This willingness to tackle varied characters underscores his commitment to building a lasting legacy, as advised by Pitt.

The actor’s ambition isn’t limited to on-screen performance. In a playful aside, Idris asserted his superior driving skills compared to his F1 co-star. “I am. I’m actually faster than Brad,” he quipped. E! News covered this lighthearted exchange, highlighting the camaraderie between the two actors.

The “Legacy” Mindset: A Shift in Focus

The core message from Idris’s comments centers on a deliberate shift in career strategy. Rather than seeking fleeting recognition, he’s prioritizing roles that contribute to a broader, more enduring body of operate. This approach, directly inspired by Pitt’s guidance, suggests a long-term vision for his career. The choice to take on the role of Miles Davis, a figure of immense cultural significance, exemplifies this commitment. Davis’s influence on jazz music and his complex personal life present a challenging and potentially rewarding opportunity for Idris to showcase his range and depth as an actor.

What’s Next for Damson Idris

Idris’s immediate focus appears to be on completing his current projects, including the Miles Davis biopic and Children of Blood and Bone. The release dates for these films remain unconfirmed, but his involvement signals a continued commitment to challenging and diverse roles. WBLS reported on his enthusiasm for these upcoming roles. His stated goal of “chasing legacy” suggests a careful consideration of future projects, prioritizing those that align with his evolving artistic vision. The success of F1, both critically and commercially, will likely open doors to further opportunities, allowing him to continue pursuing roles that resonate with his newfound focus.

Watch Damson Idris and Brad Pitt discuss F1: