(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Idris Elba says its "criminal" that his TV show The Wire was "systematically ignored".

The actor played Stringer Bell in the series that ran for five seasons. The crime drama was set in Baltimore, Maryland, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest television shows ever made.

Despite its critical acclaim, The Wire failed to win any major awards much to Idris' disbelief.

"Yeah, it's actually quite criminal how The Wire was systematically ignored," he told the latest issue of UK magazine GQ.

Idris worked alongside fellow British star Dominic West in the show.

The pair kept in touch after The Wire wrapped and have each gone on to enjoy success with other projects.

Both stars were nominated for the best actor in a miniseries prize at this year's Golden Globes.

Idris was recognised for playing the daring detective title role in the UK police drama Luther, while Dominic was up for his performance in the BBC period series The Hour.

Idris admits it was a rather uncomfortable moment when the winner was announced.

"I'd actually given him a call when the nominations were announced. We laughed about it we laughed about not being able to get rid of each other," he recalled. "He's a good sport, but it was unfortunate we were put on the same table. For one to have to watch the other win I mean, fortunately I won. But I'm sure for him it wasn't as fun." (C) Cover Media