Idris Elba: 'My Nelson Mandela Performance Is Based On My Own Father'

Idris Elba has confessed that he based is portrayal of the late Nelson Mandela on his  own father rather than the former South African president.

The British born actor who stars as legend in the upcoming biopic Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom opposite Bond actress Naomie Harris.

The 41-year-old told tabloid newspaper The Sun: ''Ironically I looked just like my old man. I designed my Mandela on my dad.''

Besides taking on the revolutionary anti-apartheid leader, Idris explained that this role has a special place in his heart; as it was the last time his dad saw him on screen before passing away at the age of 76, due to a long fight with lung cancer.

"It's a sad film and now, when I think about it, it must have been emotional for him. He must have known. We were all in denial. It was a great moment to share,'' he explained.

Idris even told the newspaper that he father cried upon seeing his portrayal of the great political leader.

"He cried. He was so emotional, because I think he must have known, if I'm really honest about it."

The actor continued: "He must have thought it was one of the last times he was going to see one of my really big performances."

The film had its European premiere last night in Leicester Square, which was attended by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Unfortunately during the premiere it was announced that Nelson Mandela has passed away at age 95.

The freedom fighter's death has caused many celebrities that include Beyonce, Jay Z, Annie Lennox, Justin Timberlake and Fergie to express their grief at Mandela's death.

PHOTOS: Have A Look At The Life Of Nelson Mandela

Kanye West 'Compares Himself To Nelson Mandela' After Storming Off Stage During Florida Show
'He's Expecting Khloe To End Things': Lamar Odom 'Preparing For Khloe Kardashian To File For Divorce
'I'm A Fan': Rebecca Ferguson Not Awkward With Ex Zayn Malik's Fiancee Perrie Edwards At Cosmopolita