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Hollywood News Updated Jul 2, 2025

Idris Elba opens up on impact of ageing, says I'm not getting as easily influenced

Idris Elba gets candid about the realities of aging in his 50s, from physical challenges to shifting perspectives. He reveals how he’s less swayed by outside influences now compared to his younger years. The actor also reflects on the cultural and political moments that shaped his generation. Alongside Amy Poehler, he embraces discomfort as a sign of personal growth.

Washington DC, July 2

Actor and musician Idris Elba talked about the challenges of ageing. The 'Heads of State' actor appeared on the latest episode of Good Hang with Amy Poehler podcast and discussed the pros and cons of being in the 50s, according to People.

"I don't love that, at this age, the age of having wellness and consciousness, is so upon us, yet our bodies fail us," said Elba.

Poehler agreed, "The biggest bummer," joking in addition, "I mean, the fact that you can get hurt just getting out of bed."

Elba shared that for their generation, "Some of the coolest things -- art, music, culture, some of the craziest world politics that set the dynamics for where we are right now -- all happened when our emotions were blossoming, and our adolescence was growing," reported People.

Reflecting on another positive side of this age, he said, "Your influences change," adding, "I think in my 30s and 40s, I was blowing with the wind a little bit with what was influencing me, what my goals were."

"And in the 50s, I'm like, 'Nah. That wind has to pass around me.' I'm not getting as easily influenced," shared Elba, as per the outlet.

At 52, Elba is also "not afraid of difficult things, or challenges that make me uncomfortable."

"And to choose your own discomfort is like a privilege at our age," said Poehler," 'It's gonna be uncomfortable, but I'm gonna be in charge of it.' "

"We talk about AI and all that stuff. I refer to it as like, 'Wow. That's the future that we talked about as kids that was just in our imaginations, and here it is, " Elba added, reported People.

'Heads of State' is on Prime Video.

— ANI

Reader Comments

Rohit P

Interesting perspective but as an Indian millennial, I feel our generation faces different challenges. We're expected to support ageing parents while navigating this crazy AI world ourselves. The sandwich generation struggle is real!

Ananya R

Love how he embraces ageing with wisdom! In our culture, 50s is when you're supposed to become a grandparent and retire, but look at him - still rocking Hollywood. Breaking stereotypes one grey hair at a time! 😄

Vikram M

While I appreciate his honesty, I wish he'd talked more about health access. In India, quality healthcare for ageing population is still a privilege, not a right like he describes. Our reality is different from Hollywood stars.

Kavya N

His comment about AI reminded me of my dad - he still can't use UPI properly but talks about how he imagined flying cars as a kid watching Star Trek! The generation gap in tech adaptation is hilarious yet heartwarming ❤️

Siddharth J

As someone turning 40 next month, this hits different. In India we're conditioned to think life ends at 35 - marriage, kids, settled career. But seeing global icons like Idris thrive gives me hope for my next chapters!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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