Rowan Atkinson

ABOUT

Rowan Atkinson, born Rowan Sebastian Atkinson on January 6, 1955, in Consett, County Durham, England, is a renowned British actor, comedian, and writer. Best known for his iconic roles in "Mr. Bean" and "Blackadder," Atkinson's distinctive physical comedy and impeccable timing have made him a household name worldwide. His performances, characterized by a mix of verbal and physical humor, continue to entertain audiences of all ages.

BEFORE FAME

Rowan Atkinson's journey to stardom began in academia. He attended Newcastle University, where he studied Electrical Engineering. Later, he pursued a master's degree in the same field at The Queen's College, Oxford. It was here, amid his rigorous academic pursuits, that he discovered his talent for comedy, joining the Oxford University Dramatic Society and performing in various sketch shows.

Atkinson's early work was heavily influenced by the comedy troupe Monty Python, and he found significant success in the London comedy circuit. His breakthrough came when he was cast in "Not the Nine O'Clock News," a satirical television program that aired from 1979 to 1982, which showcased his ability to create memorable, absurd characters.

TRIVIA

• Rowan’s character Mr. Bean was inspired by the French comedian Jacques Tati, known for his use of mime and physical humor.
• Atkinson is a skilled pianist and even showcased his talent in some episodes of "Mr. Bean."
• He holds a deep passion for cars, particularly vintage models, and has written for British car magazines.
• Surprisingly, despite his high-energy performances, Rowan Atkinson is known to be quite reserved and private in his personal life.
• He is an accomplished writer and has co-written many episodes of "Mr. Bean" along with Richard Curtis.

FAMILY LIFE

Rowan Atkinson married Sunetra Sastry, a makeup artist, in 1990. The couple had two children, a son named Benjamin and a daughter named Lily. After 24 years of marriage, they separated in 2014. Atkinson then began a relationship with comedienne Louise Ford, and they have a child together. Despite his fame, Atkinson has managed to maintain a relatively low profile regarding his family life, often shielding his loved ones from the public eye.

ASSOCIATED WITH

Throughout his illustrious career, Rowan Atkinson has worked alongside numerous acclaimed actors and comedians. He frequently collaborated with writer Richard Curtis and actor Tony Robinson in the "Blackadder" series. Additionally, Atkinson's character in "Johnny English" saw him acting with Natalie Imbruglia and Ben Miller, showcasing his ability to blend comedy with action.

Rowan Atkinson's enduring appeal lies in his mastery of physical comedy and his ability to create universally relatable characters. From the bumbling antics of Mr. Bean to the sharp wit of Edmund Blackadder, Atkinson's contributions to comedy have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.