Idris Elba, Hollywood actor, writer and producer, says racists films and television shows should not be pulled from broadcast, instead, he advises that a warning label must be added to them.

Elba speaking to the Radio Times magazine said, “I’m very much a believer in freedom of speech. But the thing about freedom of speech is that it’s not suitable for everybody. That’s why we have a rating system. We tell you that this particular content is rated U, PG, 15, 18. To mock the truth, you have to know the truth. But to censor racist themes within a show, to pull it – wait a second, I think viewers should know that people made shows like this.”

Elba’s comment came after several shows removed episodes depicting the use of Black face, in light of the Black Lives Matter movement. Episodes of popular sitcoms like “The Office” and “Community” were also removed as they failed to meet requisite standards.

Elba, who has starred in numerous blockbusters like “Luther” and “The Wire” along with Marvel’s Avenger series, also stated that “Out of respect for the time and the movement, commissioners and archive-holders pulling things they think are exceptionally tone-deaf at this time – fair enough and good for you.”

“But I think, moving forward, people should know that freedom of speech is accepted, but the audience should know what they’re getting into. I don’t believe in censorship. I believe that we should be allowed to say what we want to say. Because, after all, we’re story-makers,” he said.

With “Cancel culture” asking for cancellation and rejection of organizations, shows, and individuals who portray or state things that are offensive and objectionable, Elba added his bit into the conversation.

Speaking on the issue Elba added that certain progress has already been made on the issue of on-screen diversity.

“I’m encouraged to see companies, businesses, organizations, individuals change the way they feel about equality. But when things get tough, diversity often suffers, and we can’t lose the momentum and let things go backwards ” said Elba.

Elba, who was diagnosed with COVID-19 in March, has made a full recovery from the disease since then.