Idris Elba reveals gold's untold stories in a new documentary

The World Gold Council today announced the release of a new documentary: GOLD: A Journey with Idris Elba, created in partnership with Pioneer Productions.

Immersed in adventure, Idris Elba (Luther, Beast of Nations, Hijack) explores the mysteries, stories, and untold human relationship with our most precious metal: gold.

As his journey unfolds, we’re taken around the globe as he conquers his claustrophobia down Canadian mine shafts, explores his heritage in Ghana and delves into the journey to responsible mining in South Africa.

From the 1800s Gold Rush stimulating early demand for Levi’s jeans to the recent production of a $1M gold bar in Canada and the quest for the new gold seams in Peru; Elba uncovers the unique moments and milestones that bring the human story and socio-economic impact of gold to life.

Gold: A Journey explores the value of gold past, present and future while discovering its powers of transformation on individuals, communities, and economies.

It also highlights how the industry is navigating current challenges, from post-mining regeneration and energy consumption to the future of the workforce in gold mining.

Idris Elba said: “I feel very thankful to have been able to experience what gold means to people, what gold means to history and also to tradition. Gold has the power to transform. I’ve learnt so much about gold that wasn’t obvious or expected and now my eyes have been opened which is a wonderful thing.”

David Tait, Chief Executive Officer of, the World Gold Council, said: “Gold has a positive impact across the lives of individuals, communities and economies, with much of the story to date left to the imagination. On behalf of our members and the industry, we are delighted to bring the human stories of gold to life for the first time, working with Idris Elba to explore the value and evolution of gold.”

The documentary was commissioned to support the World Gold Council in its ambition to help the world understand the value of gold and harness its transformative power.

The documentary will be available on YouTube from 5th October 2023.

Instructively, the World Gold Council is a leading membership organisation that champions the role gold plays as a strategic asset, shaping the future of a responsible and accessible gold supply chain.

Its team of experts builds an understanding of the use case and possibilities of gold through trusted research, analysis, commentary, and insights.

World Gold Council drives industry progress, shaping policy and setting the standards for a perpetual and sustainable gold market.