Rowan Atkinson was born on January 6, 1955 in Consett, England. From a young age, he was influenced by comedic legends such as Charlie Chaplin and Peter Sellers. Despite his early interest in comedy, Atkinson went on to earn a degree in electrical engineering from the University of Oxford.
Atkinson's career in comedy took off when he began performing as a comedian, actor, and screenwriter. He quickly gained recognition as one of the funniest actors in British comedy, earning a spot on The Observer's list of the fifty funniest actors. One of his most iconic characters, Mr. Bean, gained him a large following in both England and the United States.
In 1983, Atkinson appeared in the James Bond film Never Say Never Again, showcasing his versatility as an actor. He also lent his voice to the character Zazu in the 1994 Disney classic The Lion King, further solidifying his status as a versatile performer.
Family is important to Atkinson, who was married to makeup artist Sunetra Sastry from 1990 to 2015. The couple has three children together: son Benjamin and daughters Lily and Isla. Actor Stephen Fry served as the best man at Atkinson's wedding, highlighting the close relationships he has formed within the entertainment industry.
Throughout his career, Atkinson has continued to captivate audiences with his comedic genius. He starred in the 2001 comedy film Rat Race alongside Whoopi Goldberg, showcasing his ability to excel in ensemble casts.
From his early influences in comedy to his rise to fame as one of Britain's funniest actors, Rowan Atkinson has left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. His iconic characters and memorable performances have solidified his place as a comedic legend.