Idris Elba Cast in Showtime’s ‘The Big C’

Actor Idris Elba, best known for his role on HBO’s “The Wire,” has signed on as a guest star in the upcoming Showtime series “The Big C.”

Elba will appear in four episodes as a painter who forms a relationship with series star Laura Linney, who plays a suburban teacher diagnosed with terminal cancer.

Oscar nominee Gabourey Sidibe also stars in the series as one of Linney’s students.

“The Big C” is scheduled to premiere on Aug. 16.