‘No Good Deed’ Star Idris Elba Kicked Off Invictus Games with Poetry Reading

No Good Deed star Idris Elba read poetry onstage to kick off the Invictus Games sporting competition in London on Wednesday.

The star appeared onstage in front of 6,500 people at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in the capital to recite the powerful poem “Invictus”, written by William Ernest Henley, as part of the opening celebrations.

British royal Prince Harry, who created the event, also took to the stage to give an empowering speech for the wounded military personnel competing in the sporting event.

An Invictus anthem, written by Coldplay’s Chris Martin, was performed by a military choir and British soprano Laura Wright sang her track “Invincible”. First Lady Michelle Obama also praised the athletes in a video message.

Charles, Prince of Wales, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall and William, Duke of Cambridge also attended the ceremony.

Prince William’s pregnant wife Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge cancelled her appearance as she is suffering from severe morning sickness.

The opening ceremony went ahead a day after a launch party was held for the competitors and their families on Tuesday. Prince Harry attended the bash and Foo Fighters performed. The rockers will headline the closing concert on Sunday

Photo Credit:Helga Esteb / Shutterstock.com