In a new interview, the star admitted he was offered a part on the long-running soap before he hit the big time.
Idris, 50, made a name for himself starring in hit shows such as The Wire in 2002.
He also famously played the namesake detective, DCI John Luther in the hit BBC drama Luther from 2010 until 2019.
But speaking to Roman Kemp on his Capital Radio show, he revealed that one role he turned down was on EastEnders.
When the film star was asked what roles he turned down, Idris admitted: “I mean I’ve auditioned for a lot, many, many, many, many things but I’ve got them all.
“I got offered a role in EastEnders once that I didn’t take.. I don’t know what role it was but yeah my mum was like ‘why did you not take it?’
“I just didn’t fancy it!”
This comes after Idris left the hosts of The One Show speechless, when he suffered some on-air gaffes.
On Wednesday evening, the British actor appeared on the BBC programme to discuss his return to his role in the highly anticipated film Luther: The Fallen Sun.
The hosts were excited about talking with Idris about the film, and they wanted to know how he felt about reprising the role, as well as what fans can expect from it.
Alex Jones, 45, then asked Idris if he could give fans a sneak peek of what they’ll be seeing, then Alex Scott asked him what crimes Luther will be tackling in the film this time.
“There is a gentleman who is basically spying on all of us, using our phones, laptops, and CCTV,” he quipped.
“Just wreaking havoc and basically John Luther is not having it as you know and he basically breaks out of prison… Oh no, I’ve told the plot now haven’t I.”
Alex then joined in with the humour and told viewers: “Spoiler alert from the man himself!”
However, things quickly became awkward due to some technical issues that resulted in delays with long pauses of silence in the studio.
Listen to Capital Breakfast with Roman Kemp, weekdays from 6am – 10am across the UK and on Global Player.
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