Rowan Atkinson

Biography

Rowan Sebastian Atkinson, born 6 January 1955 in Consett, England, is a comedian, actor and writer best known for creating two of the most iconic comic characters: Mr. Bean and Edmund Blackadder. He studied electrical engineering at Newcastle University, then went on to earn a master’s degree at Oxford. While at Oxford he discovered a passion for performance, teamed up with Richard Curtis and Howard Goodall, and began writing and performing comedy sketches. His first big break came with Not the Nine O’Clock News in the late 1970s. From there he starred in Blackadder, a historical sitcom, and later developed the almost-silent misadventures of Mr. Bean, which brought international fame. He appeared in films like Bean, Johnny English, The Lion King (as the voice of Zazu), Love Actually, and more. Atkinson has also worked in theatre, doing roles like Fagin in Oliver!. He was honoured by the UK with a CBE for his contributions to drama and charity. He’s known for physical comedy, expressive facial work, and a style that blends absurdity with dignity. Off-camera, he is private, enjoys car collecting, and remains one of the most respected figures in British comedy.