Who played Mr. Bean in the original British television series?

Rowan Atkinson played Mr. Bean in the original British television series. Atkinson developed the character around physical comedy, limited dialogue, and awkward attempts to solve everyday problems.

The series was created by Atkinson, writer Richard Curtis, and producer Howard Goodall. Although Mr. Bean rarely speaks, Atkinson’s facial expressions, timing, and body language make the character recognizable internationally.

Atkinson had already become known in Britain through comedy projects including Not the Nine O'Clock News and Blackadder. Some viewers confuse Mr. Bean with characters played by other British comedians, but the television role belongs specifically to Atkinson. He also played Mr. Bean in the films Bean and Mr. Bean's Holiday, as well as in animated productions.