Netflix orders new Idris Elba comedy Turn Up Charlie
- Idris Elba will star as a failed DJ in new Netflix comedy Turn Up Charlie
- Co-creating the show, the actor has a real-life second-career as a superstar DJ
- It joins Sky sitcom In The Long Run as autobiographically-inspired comedies from the star
Idris Elba has co-created a new comedy series, which has been picked up by Netflix.
Turn Up Charlie will see the actor star as an unsuccessful DJ and eternal bachelor, who finds a final chance at stardom when he becomes male nanny to his famous, superstar best friend's wild-child 11-year old daughter.
Produced by Brown Eyed Boy and Green Door, a series of eight 30-minute episodes will begin filming in May for publication in 2019 on the streaming service.
Elba created the series with producer Gary Reich, both of whom will act as executive producers. Gill Isles (Car Share), will produce the comedy, with Tristram Shapeero (Green Wing) and Matt Lipsey (Psychoville) directing.
Georgia Lester has acted as lead writer, alongside Laura Neal, Femi Oyeniran and Victoria Asare-Archer. Further casting and creative details have yet to be announced.
Best known as an actor, Elba enjoys a successful second career as a DJ in real life, and last year performed at the likes of Glastonbury and Creamfields music festivals, as well as being engaged for residencies in Ibiza both this and last year.
Meanwhile, In The Long Run, also created by and starring Idris Elba, continues on Sky One. Inspired by his own childhood, he plays a character based on his father in the 1980s-set sitcom, whilst the young Kobna - based on himself - is similarly taken by DJ decks. Episode 5 of the series, which also stars Bill Bailey and Jimmy Akingbola, will be broadcast at 10pm tonight.