Rowan Atkinson, known for his iconic roles in comedy, has recently expressed a lifelong sense of self-critique and dissatisfaction. The beloved comedian revealed that he is often dissatisfied with his work and struggles to find contentment in his creative projects.
Rowan Atkinson’s Ongoing Productions
Atkinson’s latest venture is a Netflix comedy titled “Man Vs Baby.” The series features Atkinson’s character, Trevor Bingley, who previously appeared in “Man Vs Bee.” The new production showcases Trevor navigating the challenges of caring for a baby while managing chaotic situations at a luxurious Piccadilly penthouse. “Man Vs Baby” began filming on December 22, 2022.
Creative Process and Self-Critique
Atkinson has dedicated over a year to this project, stating, “It’s been five days a week for a year and a quarter.” His attention to detail and perfectionist tendencies often lead him to be critical of his work. He mentioned, “I could write a list as long as your arm of all the things I don’t like about it.” His relentless pursuit of quality stems from his background in engineering, where he values logic and sound structure.
Personal Insights
While Atkinson enjoys the holiday spirit, he candidly acknowledged feeling fatigued from his continuous association with Christmas-themed productions. He jokingly noted, “I do like Christmas. I just think that I’ve lived this Christmas for too long.” Acknowledging his personal life, Atkinson has a daughter, Isla, with actress Louise Ford and two older children from a previous marriage.
Reflecting on Past Roles
Throughout his career, Atkinson has portrayed a range of characters, including the famously bumbling Mr. Bean and the cynical Edmund Blackadder. He recognizes that his reliance on physical comedy and exaggerated personas contrasts with his analytical mind. Despite his achievements, he remains humble, stating, “I’m just perennially dissatisfied.”
Future Projects
Looking ahead, Atkinson has plans for a one-man stage show and discussions for a potential “heritage show” with his collaborator Richard Curtis. He notes a willingness to revisit old sketches but recognizes the necessity of adapting content for contemporary audiences.
Conclusion
Rowan Atkinson’s continuous journey as a comedian showcases his internal conflict—balancing perfectionism with audience expectations. His latest project, “Man Vs Baby,” premieres on December 11 and promises to bring his unique blend of chaos and charm to the screen once again.
