Soccer Aid star Damson Idris' off-screen life from quitting football to F1 movie

Damson Idris’ Soccer Aid debut bridges a public life that spans high-stakes acting and a former dream of turning professional on the football pitch. The London Stadium appearance on May 30 marked the 20th anniversary edition, with Idris lining up for England alongside the likes of Wayne Rooney, Jill Scott, Tom Hiddleston and Owen Cooper, as England beat World XI 3-2. Idris himself opened the scoring for England, while Jermain Defoe added two more to seal the win. The event showcased a cross‑generational lineup and highlighted Idris’s star power beyond television and film.

Off the screen, Idris is known as a British actor, entrepreneur and producer, best known for Snowfall. Born in Peckham, his career includes the Brad Pitt feature F1, which earned an Oscar nomination, and upcoming roles in Squadron 42, Children of Blood and Bone, The Lords’ Day and Miles and Juliette, according to IMDb. He has said he played football professionally until 18, inspired to pivot after seeing Messi and realizing he could not reach that level, a moment he called pivotal. Idris has also been linked to American model Lori Henry, a relationship that began in 2022, paused in 2023 and rekindled in 2025.