40 Facts About Rowan

Rowan Atkinson's Early Life

Rowan Atkinson, the man behind Mr. Bean, has a fascinating background. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about his early years.

1. Born on January 6, 1955, in Consett, County Durham, England, Rowan Atkinson grew up in a modest family.
2. His father, Eric Atkinson, was a farmer and company director, while his mother, Ella May, was a housewife.
3. Rowan is the youngest of four brothers, with his siblings named Paul, Rodney, and Rupert.
4. He attended Durham Choristers School, a preparatory school, where he first showed an interest in acting.
5. Atkinson later attended St. Bees School in Cumbria, where he excelled academically.
6. He went on to study electrical engineering at Newcastle University, earning a degree in 1975.
7. Rowan continued his education at The Queen's College, Oxford, where he earned an MSc in electrical engineering.
8. During his time at Oxford, he joined the Oxford University Dramatic Society, which sparked his passion for comedy.

The Rise of Mr. Bean

Mr. Bean is one of Rowan Atkinson's most iconic characters. Here are some interesting facts about the creation and success of this beloved character.

9. Mr. Bean first appeared on television on January 1, 1990, in a half-hour special.
10. The character was inspired by Atkinson's own experiences and his love for silent film comedians like Charlie Chaplin.
11. Mr. Bean's distinctive look, including his tweed jacket and skinny red tie, was carefully crafted by Atkinson and his team.
12. The character rarely speaks, relying on physical comedy and facial expressions to convey humor.
13. Mr. Bean became an international sensation, with the show being broadcast in over 190 countries.
14. The series ran for 15 episodes, from 1990 to 1995, but its popularity endures to this day.
15. Mr. Bean has also appeared in two feature films: "Bean" (1997) and "Mr. Bean's Holiday" (2007).
16. The character has a strong online presence, with millions of followers on social media platforms like YouTube and Facebook.

Rowan Atkinson's Other Roles

While Mr. Bean is undoubtedly his most famous role, Rowan Atkinson has portrayed many other memorable characters throughout his career.

17. Atkinson starred in the British sitcom "Blackadder," which aired from 1983 to 1989, playing various incarnations of the Blackadder family.
18. He played the bumbling secret agent Johnny English in the film series of the same name, starting with "Johnny English" in 2003.
19. Rowan appeared in the romantic comedy "Love Actually" (2003) as Rufus, a meticulous jewelry salesman.
20. He voiced the character of Zazu, the red-billed hornbill, in Disney's animated film "The Lion King" (1994).
21. Atkinson starred in the sketch comedy show "Not the Nine O'Clock News" from 1979 to 1982, which helped launch his career.
22. He played Inspector Raymond Fowler in the sitcom "The Thin Blue Line" (1995-1996), set in a fictional police station.
23. Rowan appeared in the film "Four Weddings and a Funeral" (1994) as Father Gerald, a nervous priest.
24. He has also performed in numerous stage productions, including the West End revival of the musical "Oliver!" in 2009.

Personal Life and Interests

Rowan Atkinson's life off-screen is just as interesting as his on-screen persona. Here are some facts about his personal life and hobbies.

25. Atkinson married Sunetra Sastry, a makeup artist, in 1990. The couple has two children, Benjamin and Lily.
26. Rowan and Sunetra divorced in 2015, and he is currently in a relationship with actress Louise Ford.
27. Atkinson is an avid car enthusiast, owning a collection of luxury and classic cars, including a McLaren F1.
28. He has written for car magazines and appeared on the British motoring show "Top Gear" several times.
29. Rowan holds a truck driving license and has driven lorries in several of his television and film roles.
30. He is known for his meticulous attention to detail, often spending hours perfecting a single scene or joke.
31. Atkinson has a passion for aviation and holds a private pilot's license.
32. Despite his comedic persona, Rowan is known to be quite shy and reserved in real life.

Awards and Recognition

Rowan Atkinson's talent and contributions to comedy have earned him numerous accolades over the years. Here are some notable recognitions.

33. Atkinson was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2013 for his services to drama and charity.
34. He has won several British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) awards for his work in television and film.
35. Rowan received the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Comedy Performance in 1981 for his role in the stage production "Rowan Atkinson in Revue."
36. He was honored with the British Comedy Awards Lifetime Achievement Award in 2001.
37. Atkinson's character Mr. Bean was named one of the 50 greatest TV characters of all time by TV Guide in 1999.
38. He has been nominated for several Emmy Awards for his work in television.
39. Rowan was inducted into the UK Radio Hall of Fame in 2008 for his contributions to radio comedy.
40. Atkinson's influence on comedy has been recognized by numerous organizations and publications worldwide.

Rowan Atkinson's Legacy

Rowan Atkinson's impact on comedy is undeniable. From his iconic role as Mr. Bean to his sharp wit in Blackadder, Atkinson has left an indelible mark on the entertainment world. His ability to make audiences laugh without uttering a single word showcases his unique talent. Beyond acting, Atkinson's passion for cars and his academic achievements add layers to his fascinating persona. His influence extends beyond the screen, inspiring countless comedians and bringing joy to millions. As we reflect on these 40 facts, it's clear that Rowan Atkinson is not just a comedian but a multifaceted individual whose contributions to comedy and culture will be remembered for generations. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his work, there's no denying the brilliance and versatility of this comedic genius.