Idris Elba & Morgan Freeman React to Nelson Mandela's Death

Idris Elba and Morgan Freeman, two of the actors who had the chance to play Nelson Mandela on film, have reacted to the death of the iconic South African president.

“What an honor it was to step into the shoes of Nelson Mandela and portray a man who defied odds, broke down barriers, and championed human rights before the eyes of the world. My thoughts and prayers are with his family,” Idris said.

“Today the world lost one of the true giants of the past century. Nelson Mandela was a man of incomparable honor, unconquerable strength, and unyielding resolve�”a saint to many, a hero to all who treasure liberty, freedom and the dignity of humankind. As we remember his triumphs, let us, in his memory, not just reflect on how far we’ve come, but on how far we have to go. Madiba may no longer be with us, but his journey continues on with me and with all of us,” Morgan said in his statement.

Idris stars in the brand new film Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom while Morgan played him in the film Invictus.

Make sure to read what other celebrities are saying about the death.