On Monday, the actor Idris Elba shared on Twitter that he has tested positive for COVID-19.
“This morning I tested positive for Covid 19,” the actor wrote. “I feel ok, I have no symptoms so far but have been isolated since I found out about my possible exposure to the virus. Stay home people and be pragmatic. I will keep you updated on how I’m doing 👊🏾👊🏾 No panic.”
In an accompanying video, Elba added that he got tested “because I realized I was exposed to someone who also tested positive.” He also encouraged others feeling any symptoms to get tested, and offered a broad view of the pandemic in general.
“Look, we live in a divided world tight now, we can all feel it. It’s been bullshit,” the actor said. “But now’s the time for solidarity, now’s the time for thinking about each other. There are so many people whose lives who have affected, from those who have lost people that they love, to people who don’t even have it who’ve lost livelihoods.”
Last week, fellow Hollywood actor Tom Hanks announced that he and his wife Rita Wilson also tested positive for the coronavirus.
Hanks’ son released a statement that Hanks and Wilson were feeling positive. Elba echoed the sentiment.
“I will keep you updated as to how I’m doing, but so far we’re feeling OK,” Elba said.
“Stay positive and don’t freak out.”
