Rowan Atkinson actor and comedian Biography, height, weight, Age , girlfriend, wife, children and family and many more

Biography of Rowan Atkinson: The Comic Genius Behind Mr. Bean

Rowan Atkinson, renowned as one of the world’s most iconic comedians, is best known for his portrayal of the lovable and quirky character Mr. Bean. With a career spanning decades, Atkinson has become a household name for his impeccable comedic timing, unique expressions, and ability to make audiences laugh without uttering a single word. His versatility as an actor and comedian has cemented his legacy in both television and film.

Personal Information

Full Name: Rowan Sebastian Atkinson
Date of Birth: January 6, 1955
Place of Birth: Consett, County Durham, England
Age: 69 years (as of 2024)
Height: 5 feet 11 inches (181 cm)
Weight: Approx. 80 kg (176 lbs)
Nationality: British
Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Family Background and Early Life

Father: Eric Atkinson (a farmer and company director)
Mother: Ella May Atkinson
Siblings: Rowan is the youngest of four brothers, including Paul, Rodney, and Rupert Atkinson.

Rowan grew up in a middle-class family in Durham. His father’s strict upbringing emphasized discipline and hard work, traits that helped shape Rowan’s career.

Education

Schooling: Durham Choristers School and St. Bees School
College: Newcastle University (studied Electrical and Electronic Engineering)
Advanced Education: Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from The Queen's College, Oxford, where he began exploring his comedic talent in theatrical productions.

Personal Life

Girlfriend: Rowan is currently in a relationship with actress Louise Ford (since 2014).
Wife (Ex): Rowan was previously married to Sunetra Sastry, a makeup artist, from 1990 to 2015.
Children: Rowan has three children: Benjamin Atkinson, Lily Atkinson, and a third child (born in 2017 with Louise Ford).

Professional Life

Early Career in Comedy:
Rowan Atkinson began his comedic journey performing sketches while studying at Oxford. He collaborated with writer Richard Curtis, which led to opportunities in radio and television.
Television Breakthrough:
- Not the Nine O’Clock News (1979-1982): Rowan gained widespread recognition for his sharp wit and satirical humor.
- Blackadder Series (1983-1989): He showcased his acting range in this historical sitcom, playing the cunning and sarcastic Edmund Blackadder across different time periods.
Global Fame with Mr. Bean:
- Rowan’s silent comedy series, Mr. Bean, debuted in 1990 and became a global phenomenon, transcending language barriers.
- The show aired in over 190 countries and spawned movies (Bean and Mr. Bean's Holiday), animated series, and merchandise.
Film Career:
- Rowan appeared in several hit films, including Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994), The Lion King (1994, as the voice of Zazu), and Love Actually (2003).
- He starred as a bumbling secret agent in the Johnny English film series, which became a box-office success.
Stage Performances:
Rowan has also appeared in theatrical productions, showcasing his acting versatility beyond comedy.
Voice Acting:
- Apart from The Lion King, Atkinson lent his voice to several animated projects, further demonstrating his adaptability as an entertainer.

Net Worth

As of 2024, Rowan Atkinson's net worth is estimated at $150 million, primarily earned from his television shows, films, and brand endorsements.

Hobbies and Interests

Car Enthusiast: Rowan has a deep passion for cars and is known for his extensive collection, including luxury and vintage vehicles like the McLaren F1 and Aston Martin. He has also written for automotive magazines and appeared on Top Gear.
Philanthropy: He supports various charities, particularly those related to education and children's welfare.

Lesser-Known Facts About Rowan Atkinson

Originally an Engineer: Rowan Atkinson has a degree in Electrical Engineering, and his background often influences his precise and calculated comedic style.
Overcame a Speech Impediment: He struggled with a stammer during his early years, proving that determination can overcome personal challenges.
Mr. Bean Was Inspired by Silent Film Legends: Rowan credits Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton as inspirations for his wordless, physical comedy.
Accidentally Became a Pilot: Rowan once successfully controlled a private plane when the pilot passed out mid-flight, showcasing his calm demeanor under pressure.
Not a Fan of Mr. Bean: Despite its success, Rowan has said he rarely watches his own performances and doesn’t find Mr. Bean personally amusing.
Turned Down a Knighthood: Rowan declined an offer of knighthood, believing it unnecessary for his contributions to comedy.

Awards and Recognitions

British Academy Television Award (BAFTA): For his role in Not the Nine O’Clock News.
Laurence Olivier Award: For his theatrical performances.
International Emmy Award: Recognizing the global impact of Mr. Bean.
Honorary doctorate from several institutions for his contributions to comedy and entertainment.

Conclusion

Rowan Atkinson is more than just a comedian; he is a cultural icon whose work has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. His ability to connect with audiences across the globe through humor and relatability has made him a beloved figure. From Mr. Bean to Blackadder and beyond, Atkinson's career is a testament to the power of laughter and creativity.

More Lesser-Known and Interesting Facts About Rowan Atkinson

He Was Inspired by a Broken Down Car:
Rowan Atkinson revealed that his iconic Mr. Bean character was partly inspired by a time when he observed people reacting to a broken-down car. The exaggerated and silly gestures gave him the idea for Mr. Bean's distinct physical comedy.
He Once Had a Near-Death Experience:
While driving his McLaren F1, Rowan Atkinson survived a high-speed crash in 2011. The accident resulted in extensive damage to the car, but he walked away with minor injuries.
He Doesn’t Enjoy Public Speaking:
Despite being a seasoned performer, Rowan Atkinson is uncomfortable with public speaking. His natural introversion contrasts sharply with his vibrant on-screen personas.
He Has a Record for Repair Costs on a Car:
The repair bill for his crashed McLaren F1 totaled approximately £900,000, setting a record for the most expensive insurance repair claim in the UK at the time.
Mr. Bean Had a Pet Teddy as a Child:
Rowan Atkinson once disclosed that Mr. Bean’s iconic teddy bear was inspired by his childhood, where he had a similar stuffed animal he was deeply attached to.
He Wasn't Initially Interested in Comedy:
Rowan’s original ambition was to become an engineer. He stumbled into comedy during his time at Oxford when he joined a drama group to improve his social skills.
He’s One of the Few to Own a McLaren F1 Twice:
Atkinson loved his McLaren F1 so much that he bought it back after selling it, making him one of the few people to own the same ultra-rare car twice.
A Lifelong Friendship with Richard Curtis:
Rowan has been close friends with Richard Curtis, the screenwriter and director behind Blackadder and Love Actually, since their university days. Their partnership has produced some of Britain’s greatest comedic works.
He Doesn’t Write His Own Scripts:
Despite his mastery of physical and situational comedy, Rowan Atkinson rarely writes his material. He prefers collaborating with skilled writers to develop his performances.
Mr. Bean’s Car Is Iconic Worldwide:
The lime green Mini Cooper that Mr. Bean drives became almost as famous as the character himself. Rowan helped design many of its quirks, including the padlocked door and absurd use of the roof for driving.
He Prefers Serious Roles:
While known for his comedy, Atkinson has expressed a desire to take on more serious roles. He has occasionally stepped into dramatic roles to showcase his range as an actor.
He Was Nervous About Early TV Auditions:
Rowan’s first auditions for television were nerve-wracking, and he initially struggled to convey his unique comedic style to producers who didn’t understand his vision.
His Net Worth Surged After Selling His Car Collection:
Rowan Atkinson sold several luxury and vintage cars from his collection, significantly increasing his wealth. However, he continues to maintain a passion for cars.
He’s an Advocate for Privacy:
Rowan Atkinson is intensely private about his personal life. He avoids social media and rarely gives interviews about his family or off-screen activities.
Mr. Bean Became a Global Ambassador for UNICEF:
Atkinson’s character Mr. Bean was used in several UNICEF campaigns to promote child welfare, further solidifying his legacy as a global symbol of joy and compassion.
He Holds a CBE Honor:
Rowan Atkinson was awarded the title of Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2013 for his services to drama and charity.
He Avoids Watching His Performances:
Rowan rarely watches his own shows or movies. He believes in focusing on the creative process rather than revisiting completed work.
He Dislikes Socializing:
Atkinson has admitted that he dislikes large gatherings and prefers the quiet company of close friends or his car collection.
He Rejected Hollywood’s Demand for Mr. Bean Movies:
While Hollywood wanted more Mr. Bean movies, Atkinson refused to over-commercialize the character, insisting on maintaining its originality and charm.
He Inspired Many Modern Comedians:
Rowan Atkinson’s unique style of physical comedy has influenced comedians worldwide, who often cite him as a significant inspiration for their work.

These lesser-known facts highlight Rowan Atkinson’s fascinating personality, blending his reserved, intellectual side with his unmatched talent for creating universally loved comedic characters.

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