Idris Elba says he isn’t going for ‘sexy’ as Knuckles in Sonic the Hedgehog 2

This is a family film, y’all

Actor Idris Elba will be playing Knuckles the Echidna in the upcoming sequel to the Sonic the Hedgehog movie. And no, he’s not trying to make it sexy.

Elba has played many a suave heartthrob in his time, but in an interview with ScreenRant, the actor confirmed that he’s not trying to add any of that kind of heat to the role. When asked how his, as ScreenRant phrases it, “history of debonair English characters” would play into his Knuckles performance, here’s what he had to say:

“Honestly, I cannot say. Contractually, I cannot say anything. But I wouldn’t say he was sexy. I don’t think I’m going for that. That’s for sure.”

Look, on the one hand, no one should be surprised. This is a family movie, y’all. Everyone needs to take a breather. But also, Idris Elba has an incredible voice and I’m now frankly curious what his Knuckles portrayal will even sound like. Point is, let’s cool down, and keep these sweet, innocent actors far, far away from the fan art.

The Sonic movie even getting a sequel should already be exciting enough, after the extensive redesigns it went through over the lukewarm reception its original look received. By some accounts it sounds like the movie was still at least somewhat successful; at least enough to make a sequel and tie in an actor like Idris Elba.

So while those looking for a sexier Knuckles will have to look elsewhere—there’s a sentence I never envisioned myself typing until now—the Sonic sequel is still getting made, and let’s let that be that.

Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is set for April 8, 2022.