The Wire and Luther actor Idris Elba is to star in a new Discovery Channel series, airing next year, in which he'll take on extreme racing challenges, including motor rallying, powerboating and aerobatic flying events.

Elba commented 'I'm taking on the toughest racing challenges of my life for this new Discovery TV series. Along the way I'll meet extraordinary individuals, spectacular machines and hear amazing stories of how far people go to satisfy their love of speed. The extreme challenges will take me right out of my comfort zone as I compete against the best on land, water and in the air'.