Idris Elba, the renowned actor and PEOPLE’s 33rd Sexiest Man Alive, tied the knot with Sabrina Dhowre Elba in 2019, marking his third marriage. Prior to meeting Sabrina, Idris had been married twice before. In an interview with the Sunday Times in 2022, Idris shared that he had believed he was done with love until Sabrina, a Canadian model, changed his perspective and made him open to the idea of love once again. Describing it as “love at first sight,” Idris fondly recalled the moment he met Sabrina while filming a movie in Vancouver, stating, “The rest is history.”
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The couple’s chemistry and shared goals are what solidified their bond, according to Idris. They also co-founded the skincare brand S’ABLE Labs together and even did a topless ad for the brand in October 2025. Referring to marriage as a journey, Idris emphasized the importance of not counting the years but rather cherishing the moments spent together. Sabrina, who hails from Canada and has Somali roots, emerged into the limelight as the only Black girl in her high school in Vancouver. She also won the title of Miss Vancouver in 2014 and has a background in the modelling industry.
Sabrina’s relationship with Idris blossomed after a chance encounter in a jazz bar when she approached him for “wing-man” duties. Their connection grew quickly, and they became inseparable, particularly during Idris’ filming of The Mountain Between Us. The couple got engaged in 2018 when Idris surprised Sabrina by proposing on stage during a preview of his directorial debut, Yardie. The proposal, described by Idris as nerve-wracking yet spontaneous, set the stage for their wedding in Marrakesh, Morocco, on April 26, 2019.
Their nuptials in Morocco were a grand affair, complete with a festive party featuring camels, fire dancers, and dancing. Sabrina dubbed the event as the “best night ever” during a chat on The Jennifer Hudson Show in 2024. The couple’s foundation, The Elba Hope Foundation, has also made strides in the charity sector by partnering with the Prince’s Trust to launch the Creative Futures project, focusing on inspiring young people in Manchester through the arts. As a stepmother to Idris’ children, Isan and Winston, Sabrina has embraced her role wholeheartedly and has even been spotted publicly with Isan at events.
Their philanthropic efforts, entrepreneurial ventures, and enduring love story have solidified Idris Elba and Sabrina Elba as a power couple in both the entertainment industry and the charitable sector. With their shared values, mutual support, and unwavering dedication to making a positive impact, Idris and Sabrina continue to inspire others with their dynamic partnership and commitment to making a difference.