Idris Elba Calls Meghan Markle A ‘Beacon,’ ‘Role Model’ For Women

Idris Elba had nothing but good things to say about Meghan Markle.

The “Luther” star recently attended an event at the Buckingham Palace where he and his girlfriend, Sabrina Dhowre, had the chance to meet Prince Charles.

While there, the award-winning actor opened up to Sky News about the impact of Markle, an African-American woman, marrying Prince Harry. The couple’s wedding has been set for May 19, 2018 at the St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle.

Elba called Markle a “beacon” and said that regardless of her color, she is a “role model.”

“As a strong woman marrying into our royal family, she’s going to be a role model for any woman. The point of that of course our society is one of mixed heritage and it’s nice to see Meghan within the royal family. It’s great. And of course, she’s going to be a beacon and of course she’s going to be someone that people look towards,” he said.

Markle’s impact is already being felt across the world, but most especially in the U.K. Everything that the “Suits” alum wears or brings becomes sold out. After her wedding date was announced, Windsor hotel rooms have become fully booked.

However, not everyone has positive things to say about Markle getting into the royal family. “The Crown” star Matt Smith previously said that he feels sorry for the actress.

While speaking with Vanity Fair, he said, “I feel sorry for her. It’s such a transition in her life, and it’s such a huge thing to take on. Life as she knows it is gone. But hey, she’s marrying the prince of Britain – how exciting for her.”

Prince Harry previously revealed during their first sit-down interview with BBC that he asked Markle if she’s ready for what may come as a new member of the royal family. Markle told her fiancé that she’s up for anything, and she is also excited to take on new responsibilities.

According to Prince Harry, this was one of the many other reasons how he knew that Markle was the one. The couple got engaged only after a year of dating.