Idris Elba signs multi-book deal to release children's stories inspired by his daughter

A part of a deal with HarperCollins, the actor will release children's picture and fiction books

Idris Elba is set to release a series of children's books with HarperCollins. AP

Actor, DJ and now author, Idris Elba is seemingly a man of many talents. The British star has signed a global multi-book deal with HarperCollins to publish a series of children's books inspired by his daughter.

The deal includes both picture and fiction books that the Luther actor has developed alongside his writing partner, Robyn Charteris.

"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 said.

Charteris has worked on a Bafta-winning children's drama series for CBBC in the UK, as well as creating and writing one of the first original 52-episode pre-school series for digital channel CBeebies. She has also served as a creative consultant for Mattel and Lego, and has a master's degree in playwriting.

"Idris Elba is a creative force, who has many wonderful stories to tell. We are honoured to be working with him and with Robyn Charteris to bring Idris's rich and imaginative storytelling to the world of children's books, and we are thrilled to welcome them to the HarperCollins family," said Suzanne Murphy, president and publisher of HarperCollins Children’s Books in the US.

The books are set for release in 2022.