One of the most iconic figures in comedy, Rowan Atkinson, has been loved by audiences for many decades. Beloved for his timeless roles in Mr. Bean and Blackadder, Rowan was born on January 6, 1955, in Consett, County Durham and grew up in a small English village. He pursued a degree in electrical engineering before finding his calling in comedy.
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He first came to prominence with BBC’s sketch comedy show Not the Nine O’Clock News and eventually became a household name with movies like Never Say Never, The Lion King, Love Actually and Four Weddings and a Funeral. His most famous role as a mute character of Mr Bean went on to become a global fan favourite. While many fans love his art and humour, they don’t know that he has struggled with a unique condition.
Rowan Atkinson’s struggle with stammer
According to The Express, Rowan has battled a stammer for most of his life, a condition that profoundly influenced his career choices. In hindsight, this could be the reason why he opted to do a character like Mr Bean who uses awkward behaviour to act instead of words.
Reportedly, the 69-year-old doesn't like giving interviews for this reason. He has trouble pronouncing words that begin with the letter B and are followed by a vowel. The actor has to take a deep breath before attempting to say such words. Back in 2017, during an interview with Time Magazine, Rowan explained:
I find when I play a character other than myself, the stammering disappears. That may have been some of the inspiration for pursuing the career I did.
Over the years, he has minimized his public appearances and interviews, focusing instead on his craft.
What is Rowan Atkinson doing now?
Despite his speech impediment, Rowan has remained active in the entertainment industry. Recently, he starred in Man vs. Bee on Netflix, showcasing his unparalleled knack for physical comedy. He also appeared in Wonka, a much-anticipated prequel to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. These projects highlight Rowan’s enduring talent and appeal across generations.
A quiet life away from the spotlight
Unlike many celebrities, Rowan prefers a low-profile lifestyle. He resides in a stunning modern mansion in South Oxfordshire, a peaceful retreat far from the bustling entertainment world, reports The Express. The property is designed by acclaimed architect Richard Meier and is the first building in the UK designed by Meier who is ‘regarded as one of the world's leading architects.’ He bought the land for a whopping £2.6 million in 2006.
He bought the property with his ex-wife Sunetra Sastry, a former BBC makeup artist. The two were married for 24 years and got divorced in 2015. The divorce, according to Daily Star, was finalised in less than a minute as Rowan was not present at the Central Family Court to hear the divorce proceedings.
He now shares his Oxfordshire home with his partner, actress Louise Ford, and their daughter, Isla, who was born in 2017. Louise, known for her role in The Windsors, met Rowan during a West End production in 2013, and the couple has been together since.
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Sources used:
The Express: Rowan Atkinson's hidden health battle that stops him doing interviews
The Express: Rowan Atkinson’s quiet life in Oxfordshire village where average home fetches £1.4million
Daily Star: Rowan Atkinson's life – Burlesque dancer daughter, younger girlfriend and 65-second divorce
