Idris Elba Just Revealed Why He Proposed to Sabrina Dhowre in Public

Idris Elba and Sabrina Dhowre became engaged earlier this year, during a screening of his film, Yardie. Though the actor's proposal was the definition of smooth-we know this because there's live footage of the moment-Elba was really feeling the pressure. "It was the most nerve-wracking thing for me ever," he told People, of the moment.

His nerves might have had something to do with timing. The actor shared that his original plan-he intended to propose on Valentine's Day-fell through, which is why he ultimately decided to pop the question in public at the screening. "It was a little spontaneous, if I'm honest," he explained. "I was at a cast and crew screening and among people I loved. We had all worked so hard for this project so I was like I'm doing it right now, here, today." The proposal went viral when an onlooker shared a video of the moment online. "It was quite a public affair," he continued. "But it really wasn't meant to be on the news."

Elba also commented on his bond with Dhowre, noting that they attribute their strong relationship to chemistry. "She makes me laugh and we share common goals," he added. "She makes me happy. She makes me celebrate my successes and when I'm not too sure about stuff, she makes me think." Dhowre clearly agrees-her post-proposal Instagram photo conveyed that exact sentiment. "Baby! I can't tell you enough how happy you make me and how lucky I feel to have found a love like this, you make my heart feel so full. I love you," she wrote earlier this year.

With wedding planning well under way, Elba has his big-day priorities set. The former DJ revealed that music will be a major part of his repection: "It's a special day, but we both have our own ideas. I want about 19 DJs. There have to be, c'mon!"