Rowan Atkinson is a comedic genius known worldwide for his portrayal of the bumbling yet lovable Mr. Bean. However, there’s much more to this British icon than meets the eye. Here are some fascinating facts about Rowan Atkinson that highlight his multifaceted career and life.
1. Rowan Atkinson Is a Highly-Educated Engineer
Before stepping into the world of comedy, Atkinson pursued a career in engineering. He studied Electrical Engineering at Newcastle University and later earned a Master’s degree in the same field from Oxford University. It was during his time at Oxford that he began developing his comedic skills, performing in sketch shows and student productions.
2. He Initially Wanted to Become a Doctor
Rowan Atkinson once revealed that he had originally considered becoming a doctor. However, his passion for engineering and performance eventually took him down a different path. Even though he didn’t become a medical professional, his scientific and analytical mind has played a role in crafting his precise comedic timing.
3. Mr. Bean Was Inspired by French Comedian Jacques Tati
Atkinson drew inspiration for the character of Mr. Bean from the silent film performances of French comedian Jacques Tati. Much like Tati’s characters, Mr. Bean relies heavily on physical humor rather than dialogue. This has made the character universally loved, as his antics can be understood by audiences around the world, regardless of language.
4. Atkinson Is a Car Enthusiast
Rowan Atkinson’s love for cars is no secret. He has owned several luxury and vintage vehicles over the years, including a rare McLaren F1, which he famously crashed—twice! He’s also appeared on Top Gear and written for various car magazines. His passion for engineering and mechanics extends beyond the stage, into his personal life.
5. He’s a Skilled Pilot
Atkinson has taken his love for engineering and machinery to the skies. The comedian is a licensed pilot and even flew his private plane to Kenya. His flying skills came in handy when he had to take control of a plane during a mid-air emergency after the pilot fainted. Atkinson managed to keep the plane stable until the pilot regained consciousness.
6. He Almost Didn’t Become Mr. Bean
Interestingly, Rowan Atkinson almost turned down the role of Mr. Bean due to initial doubts about its potential success. He also had reservations about physical comedy. However, he soon realized that the silent, awkward character was perfect for his style, and the rest is history. Mr. Bean became an international sensation and remains a beloved character decades later.
7. Atkinson Is Known for Playing Serious Roles
Though best known for his comedic roles, Atkinson has shown his versatility as an actor. He’s performed in several dramatic productions, such as Quartermaine’s Terms and the film Maigret. His ability to switch from slapstick comedy to serious roles demonstrates his range as a performer.
Final Thoughts
Rowan Atkinson is far more than just Mr. Bean. From his academic pursuits to his love of cars and piloting, he’s a complex individual with a wide range of interests and talents. His contribution to both comedy and drama makes him one of the most versatile and beloved actors of our time.
