No Big Deal, But Idris Elba DJed Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's Wedding
Idris Elba went on The Ellen DeGeneres Show to talk about his proposal to fiancee Sabrina Dhowre and his upcoming performance at Coachella. But while he was there, he let slip an insanely cool detail from the most-watched and covered wedding of 2018—Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's royal wedding. Not only did Idris attend, he DJed the event!

- Idris Elba told Ellen DeGeneres in an interview that he actually DJed Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's wedding in 2018 (opens in new tab).
- Idris said he wondered if it was a joke, but apparently not: Harry had seen Idris DJ before, and he was a fan. So sweet!
- If you want to go back and relive that special, celeb-filled day, we're here for you (opens in new tab).
Idris Elba went on The Ellen DeGeneres Show to talk about his proposal to fiancee Sabrina Dhowre and his upcoming performance at Coachella this year. But while he was there, he let slip an insanely cool detail from the most-watched and covered wedding of 2018 (and probably the 21st century so far)—a.k.a. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's royal wedding, of course. Not only did Idris attend, he DJed the event!
Idris laid out the situation for all of us. "So Harry and I have hung out a couple of times through his dad’s [Prince Charles] charity—The Prince’s Trust—which helped me out when I was a young actor."
"Harry came to a couple of parties that I DJed and he was like, 'What are you doing on [May 19]?'"
Idris continued, "I told him nothing and then he asked if I would DJ at his wedding...I was like, is this a joke?"
So, Idris is talking about the wedding reception, not the actual ceremony—which was held at Windsor Castle and was televised, without a turntable in sight. (That would be hilarious, though, if he did DJ the ceremony—imagine the look on the Queen's face??) We know less about the reception except for a few guests Instagramming their outfits and a couple key details, like Meghan reciting a beautiful, meaningful poem (opens in new tab). So this is BIG insight into the event.
Okay, but now I have a million more questions, Idris. What songs did you play? Were there any songs you WEREN'T allowed to play? (Is the Queen not a fan of the Macarena? Oooh even better, what if she IS a fan of the Macarena?) What was the couple's first dance? Their last dance? I must know!!
As a reminder, here's Idris and Sabrina entering the church at the royal wedding (because why not reminisce about that amazing day, I say):
Although he probably changed into something a bit more comfortable for DJing purposes.
For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.
SUBSCRIBE HERE (opens in new tab)
RELATED STORIES
Katherine’s a Boston-based contributor at Marie Claire who covers fashion, culture, and lifestyle—from “Clueless” to Everlane to news about Lizzo. She’s been a freelancer for 11 years and has had roles with Cosmopolitan and Bustle, with bylines in Parents, Seventeen, and elsewhere. It’s “I go to dinner,” not “Her huge ego,” but she responds to both.
-
We Can’t Stop Laughing at Prince George Cringing Over Little Brother Prince Louis’ Antics at the Platinum Jubilee
Will we see more Louis hijinks at the Coronation?
By Rachel Burchfield
-
Despite Their Requests, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Have “No Chance” of Appearing on the Buckingham Palace Balcony After King Charles’ Coronation, Royal Expert Says
The saga continues.
By Rachel Burchfield
-
If Prince Harry Does Attend the Coronation, He Will Avoid Bowing to Queen Consort Camilla
Plans are being drawn up to avoid the potentially awkward moment.
By Rachel Burchfield
-
Prince George and Prince Louis Are "Protective" of Mom Kate in Mother's Day Photos, Body Language Expert Says
They have such a sweet relationship.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Will Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Attend the Coronation? What We Know at This Stage
Talk about a cliffhanger.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Prince William Once Joked He Might Have Worn "A Comedy Beard and a Hat" to Attend a Concert Incognito
OMG, imagine.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Royal Photographer Says Prince George Is "Like William," Prince Louis Is "Like Harry"
Tell me you don't see it.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Princess Eugenie Is Following Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Example With Her Official Announcements, Historian Says
They're in a similar-ish position.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
The Status of Prince Harry and Meghan's Coronation Invitation Is a Real "Mess," Royal Commentator Says
Yep, none of this is easy.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Meghan Markle Made $80K Per Year With The Tig, But Could Make Much More With a Relaunch: Branding Expert
It could be a smart business move for the duchess.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Princess Kate "Asserted Her Authority" Over Prince William During St. Patrick's Day Appearance, Body Language Expert Says
He laid low to let her shine.
By Iris Goldsztajn