We didn’t have King Charles III forgiving Netflix for “The Crown” on our 2025 Bingo cards, but here we are. The English monarch is teaming up with Idris Elba (“Luther: The Fallen Sun”) for a new documentary looking at the impact of The King‘s Trust, a charity Charles founded in 1976. The organization is celebrating it’s 50th anniversary next year.
Formally known as The Prince’s Trust, this organization was made to establish grants and initiatives for economically/socially vulnerable people. Elba received one of these grants, and the money allowed him to study acting, forever changing his life and the world of entertainment.
“The King’s Trust gave me an opportunity that changed my life,” Elba said. “At a time when I didn’t have the resources to pursue my ambitions, they offered real, practical support — including financial help — that helped me take those first steps to advance my career.”
The Documentary
This currently untitled documentary will follow Elba and His Royal Majesty as they explore the nuts and bolts of the organization. It will share the stories of the 1 million young people the charity has helped worldwide. Its reach goes even further when you factor in one of those recipients establishing the Elba Hope Foundation.
“Today, through the Elba Hope Foundation, I’m focused on creating those same opportunities for young people who are full of potential but lacking access. Around the world, millions are still waiting for that one door to open,” Elba continued. “This documentary is about shining a light on what’s possible when it does — and why the work of The King’s Trust remains so important.”
“Nobody understands the impact of this work better than those who have experienced the support we offer first hand,” Jonathan Townsend, U.K. chief executive of The King’s Trust, said. “As a long-term supporter and former beneficiary of The Trust himself, Idris will undoubtedly bring a unique perspective to this groundbreaking documentary as he peels back the layers of our story and shows how our life-changing work is as relevant today as it has ever been.”
The project is expected to begin filming next week with Ashley Francis-Roy (“To Catch a Copper”) directing. It’s slated to hit Netflix in fall 2026.
