Idris Elba’s wife says woman hit her car — then questioned whether she belonged

Sabrina Dhowre Elba has spoken out about what she described as a racist encounter in London after a woman allegedly backed into her parked car and then questioned where she was from.

The Canadian model, activist and wife of actor Idris Elba shared details of the incident in a TikTok video, saying the exchange left her upset and highlighted what she sees as a growing problem in Britain.

According to Sabrina, the confrontation began when a driver reversed into her parked vehicle. However, rather than focusing on the collision, the conversation quickly shifted in a different direction.

She claimed the woman repeatedly asked where she was from and became hostile when confronted about the accident.

Sabrina said she initially replied that she was Canadian, but alleged the woman continued pressing the question in a way she found uncomfortable.

The model explained that she believed the inquiry was not about her background but was instead intended to challenge her right to question the driver’s actions.

“Suddenly it wasn’t about the fact that she had hit my car,” Sabrina said. “It was about whether or not I belonged enough to hold her accountable.”

She went on to argue that racism is not always obvious or dramatic, suggesting it can sometimes emerge through seemingly ordinary interactions that redirect attention away from the issue at hand.

The 36-year-old also connected the experience to wider debates about identity, belonging and immigration in the UK, saying public discussions around who belongs in the country can influence how people treat one another in everyday situations.

Sabrina claimed the woman attempted to leave the scene after the collision and said the incident left her reflecting on how some people still feel entitled to question whether others belong.

While she noted there was only minor damage to her car, she said the encounter was upsetting because of what it represented.

The activist, who serves as a United Nations goodwill ambassador and co-founded the skincare and wellness brand S’ABLE Labs with her husband, said incidents like this should not be dismissed as simple misunderstandings.

Her video prompted a wave of responses online, with many social media users expressing support and sharing their own experiences of being asked similar questions.

Sabrina and Sir Idris Elba have been married since 2019 and are also involved in anti-knife crime initiatives in London, including efforts to create a cultural community space for young people.

The actor was recently awarded a knighthood in recognition of his services to young people.