First look at Idris Elba in new 1980s-set TV comedy based on his childhood

The first promotional pictures have been revealed for Idris Elba’s semi-autobiographical new comedy series.

Created by and starring the Luther actor, In the Long Run is based on his childhood in 1980s London.

The series is described as “a warm-hearted, period drama based on true, ordinary yet extraordinary lives.”

Idris Elba previously commented: “I’m really happy to be in comedy, bringing some joy into a world that needs some laughs. With a great team behind it I look forward to people seeing it.”

The cast also includes comedian Bill Bailey as Bagpipes, the neighbour of Elba’s character Walter.

The official synopsis reads: “Set in London 1985, In the Long Run is about the Easmon family. Amid the tower blocks and shell suits, life for Walter and Agnes Easmon is all about quiet routine. They arrived from Sierra Leone 13 years ago and are happy earning enough to pay the bills with a bit left over to send back home. Walter works hard alongside his mate and neighbour Bagpipes at the local factory while Agnes patrols the estate selling make-up door-to-door. Their British born son Kobna and his best mate Dean hang out on the estate playing football and doing their best to dodge the local thugs.

“But when Walter’s brother Valentine arrives to the UK, his energy and lust for life changes everything. He crashes into their lives bringing laughter and chaos and igniting a passion for music in Kobna. And though he frustrates Agnes and tests Walter’s patience, Kobna adores his ‘funcle’ Valentine because after all, he’s family.”

All episodes of In the Long Run will be available to watch in the UK from Thursday 29 March on Sky1 and NOW TV.