Idris Elba’s Daughter Auditioned To Play His Daughter In His New Movie "Beast," But Shockingly Didn’t Get The Role

    Although she did really well in her audition, the chemistry between Idris and his daughter, Isan, just didn't translate on film.

    Morgan Murrell
    by Morgan Murrell

    BuzzFeed Staff

    It looks as if art doesn't always imitate life...at least that was the case for this Elba family–filled audition.

    Idris smiling
    NBC / Nathan Congleton / NBC via Getty Images

    During a recent interview with The Breakfast Club, Idris Elba revealed that his daughter, Isan, auditioned to play his onscreen daughter for his new movie Beast, but when she didn't get the role, it caused tension between them for weeks.

    Idris and his daughter side by side
    David M. Benett / Dave Benett / Getty Images for Formula E

    Despite admitting that his daughter did a great job during her audition, Idris said their real-life father-daughter chemistry "wasn't right for film, weirdly enough."

    Idris poses for a photo with Isan and his wife, Sabrina
    David M. Benett / Dave Benett / Getty Images for Formula E

    Idris revealed that the 20-year-old aspiring actor didn't talk to him "for about three weeks" after receiving a call from producer Will Packer that she didn't land the role.

    A close-up of Isan smiling at the Golden Globes
    Frederick M. Brown / Getty Images

    “[Idris] auditioned with her; he was very tough on her," Will explained to The Breakfast Club. "[Idris] said, ‘Listen, at the end of the day, we’re going to make the best decision for the movie. I trust you, Will, and I trust the director.’"

    Isan holding on to her dad's arm
    John Sciulli / Getty Images

    Will revealed that she was really good and very close in the audition process, but "some of the nuances of that real-life relationship sometimes doesn't translate onscreen."

    Once Isan was done giving her dad the silent treatment, she admitted how grateful she was for the opportunity to audition. She and Idris are back on good terms.

    Justin Tallis / AFP via Getty Images

    “We got through that, you know," Idris added. "And I’m really proud of her to go through that and to not get the role, but still come to the premiere.”

    Idris and Isan at the Beast premiere
    Angela Weiss / AFP via Getty Images

    Both Idris and Will strongly believe Isan will get her big break soon, and audiences will finally get to witness her talent.

    Idris smiles for photographers on the red carpet as he's flanked by his wife and daughter
    Chris Delmas / AFP via Getty Images

    To learn more about Idris and Will's new film, Beast, check out the full Breakfast Club interview below:

    View this video on YouTube
    The Breakfast Club

    And be sure to watch Beast when it hits theaters Aug. 19.