Idris Elba set to receive the BAFTA Special Award

Idris Elba is to receive the BAFTA Special Award at the upcoming BAFTA TV Awards ceremony.

The \'Luther\' star will be given the accolade - which is one of the British Academy\'s highest honours - for his creative contribution to the TV industry.

Idris, 47 - who has called for more diversity in the TV and movie businesses - said: "It\'s a great privilege to be honoured with the BAFTA Special Award.

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"It\'s been a mission of mine to provide opportunity and access to emerging talent from diverse backgrounds in this industry, which is the same opportunity I received many years ago from open-minded and diversity-conscious casting.

"I thank BAFTA for recognising myself and others who are dedicated to the same cause, as these are all necessary steps towards helping to shift the awareness and understanding of the diversity gap in entertainment."

Amanda Berry, the chief executive of BAFTA, hailed the London-born star as "an accomplished director, producer and writer".

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She continued: "He is also a driving force for championing diversity, ensuring talented people from all backgrounds achieve their potential.

"We\'re delighted to recognise Idris, and his outstanding work, at this year\'s ceremony."

Previous winners of the award include the likes of Clare Balding, Cilla Black and Sir Lenny Henry.

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The BAFTA TV Awards were originally supposed to be held in May, but were postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Now, the event - which will be hosted by Richard Ayoade - is set to take place in a closed studio. The socially-distanced show will be held on July 31.