Idris Elba, Star of The Wire, Turns 40: A Life in Pictures

British actor turned Hollywood A-lister Idris Elba has turned 40.

The Wire star, born Idrissa, celebrates the milestone birthday as the cover star of the latest issue of Esquire magazine.

Flashing his bright whites alongside actor Taylor Kitsch, he confirms his heartthrob status dressed in a dapper blue suit and tie.

With standout roles in films including Prometheus and Takers, the London-born actor has managed to successfully break into America.

His role in in HBO's critically acclaimed The Wire earned him the 2011 BET Best Actor Award and he was honoured with a Golden Globe for his lead role in BBC's Luther.

Not satisfied with having just a movie career, Elba is also a DJ and music producer.

After earning mainstream recognition, he has worked with the likes of Fat Joe, Angie Stone Giggs and Jay Z.

To mark Elba hitting 40, IBTimes UK looks back at key moments in his life...