Rowan Atkinson, the comedic genius behind Mr. Bean, once orchestrated a quiet delay in the character’s Italian debut. It wasn’t about contracts or broadcasting schedules, but a simple desire for a peaceful holiday. Atkinson confessed he intentionally stalled the show’s arrival in Italy, hoping to enjoy the country incognito.
He envisioned strolling through Italian streets, savoring the culture without the immediate recognition that Mr. Bean brought with it. Remarkably, the plan worked. For years, he enjoyed anonymity, a rare luxury for a globally famous performer. Italy eventually welcomed Mr. Bean in 1997, seven years after its UK launch, but Atkinson had already secured his undisturbed escapes.
Atkinson’s relationship with his iconic characters is surprisingly complex. He admits to rarely watching his own work, often stumbling upon it unexpectedly – like discovering a surprisingly good episode of *Blackadder* during a flight. He was genuinely pleased with what he saw, a rare moment of self-assessment for the notoriously self-deprecating actor.
His latest venture, *Man vs. Baby* on Netflix, offers a different dynamic. A spin-off from *Man vs. Bee*, the series allows Atkinson to portray Trevor Bingley, a character he finds surprisingly endearing. He describes Trevor as a “genuinely sweet man,” a stark contrast to the often-selfish nature of his more famous creations.
Comparing Trevor to Mr. Bean, Atkinson paints a revealing picture. He views Bean as “a selfish, self-centred anarchic child,” focused solely on his own desires and lacking charm. Blackadder is sardonic and negative, while even Johnny English is driven by vanity. Trevor, however, represents a refreshing change of pace.
Despite a memorable appearance at the 2012 London Olympics opening ceremony and continued sketches for charity, a full-scale Mr. Bean revival remains unlikely. Atkinson acknowledges the occasional thought, but questions its necessity. While not entirely dismissing the possibility, he leans towards the idea that Mr. Bean’s story has largely been told.
The actor seems content exploring new facets of comedy, offering audiences characters like Trevor Bingley – a welcome departure from the mischievous chaos of his past roles. It’s a testament to his enduring talent that he continues to captivate audiences with such diverse and compelling performances.
