“You’re My Family for Real Now”: Damson Idris Talks Cast Unity as Cynthia Erivo Teases Her ‘Children of Blood and Bone’ Role

Big stars can bring big personalities—and sometimes those personalities collide. But judging by Damson Idris’ remarks during the Children of Blood and Bone panel at New York Comic Con, this all-star ensemble found something special: a sense of family.

The film’s lineup includes Cynthia Erivo, Viola Davis, Regina King, Idris Elba, Thuso Mbedu, Amandla Stenberg, Lashana Lynch and Chiwetel Ejiofor alongside Idris. That’s serious star power sharing one screen.

In the attached panel clip, Idris credits director Gina Prince-Bythewood with creating space to explore his character’s emotional journey and the story’s family dynamics.

“She had so much patience for the places that I needed to get to,” he said, before thanking his castmates: “I mean, you’re my family for real now.” His comments suggest a shared connection behind the performances, adding another reason to anticipate what this cast delivers together.

Erivo, who plays Admiral Kaea, offered a different perspective on a character audiences may see as a villain. After spending so much time playing heroes, she explained that this character doesn’t see herself that way. “I just think she’s a really special individual who believes deeply in what she’s doing,” Erivo said. She also discussed horseback riding and machete training, revealing the physical preparation behind the performance.

With Erivo digging into her character’s convictions and Idris describing a cast that became family, the panel offers an intriguing glimpse of the chemistry behind this ambitious fantasy adaptation.

Children of Blood and Bone arrives in theaters January 15, 2027.