Rowan Atkinson has hinted that comedy fans could see less of his much-loved character Mr Bean as he concentrates on more serious stage roles.

The actor, 57, said the globally-recognised creation had been a commercial success, but that playing childlike roles as a middle-aged actor could be perceived as "a little sad".

In in an interview with the Daily Telegraph, Atkinson said: "The stuff that has been most commercially successful for me - basically quite physical, quite childish - I increasingly feel I'm going to do a lot less of.

"I also think someone in their 50s being childlike becomes a little sad. You've got to be careful."

Atkinson's last outing as Mr Bean was at the Olympics Opening Ceremony where he brought a smile to the face of millions of fans around the world.

The actor is preparing to take the lead role in Simon Gray's Quartermaine's Terms in the West End.

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