If you’re a fan of British cinema, you might be familiar with Robert Pattinson. While his acting career has mostly been in film, he has also appeared on television, most notably in the cult series, The Handmaid’s Tale. 

And recently, he’s been seen in theater as well. Most recently, he’s appeared as the lead in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Hamlet, which was met with rave reviews. So if you’re in London, you’ve probably seen Robert Pattinson.

But what exactly does the British actor do beyond his cinematic appearances? We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about the multi-talented Robert Pattinson. Here’s what you need to know.

Early Life And Background

Born and raised in London, the handsome Robert Pattinson always had his sights set on a career in acting. He began his studies at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, graduating in 2009.

Pattinson’s mother, Karen, was a high-powered businesswoman who served as the vice-chairman of Waterstones, a luxury book and stationery store in Oxford Street. She was described by the Guardian as a “high-powered beast.” But despite her celebrity, she always found time for her children, even acting as a parent coach for her son’s Hollywood agent. She died of cancer in 2016, which her family described as a ‘breathtakingly tough battle.’”

Pattinson’s father, Stephen, is an entrepreneur who co-founded the international law firm, Fieldfisher, and serves as its managing partner. He is a graduate of Oxford University and Harvard Law School. While his career was clearly focused on law, he maintained a close relationship with his children, often travelling with them to work locations. He died from a heart attack in 2018, aged 66. His passing was widely mourned, as he and his wife had been married for over 40 years.

Career

Pattinson began his acting career in 2010, when he appeared in the stage play, God of Carnage. This was followed by a lead role in the film, The Lost Children of Philanthropos. He then went on to land a supporting role in Stephen Kay’s The Rover, and lead roles in The Lighthouse, Alice in Wonderland, and The Gentlemen. Most recently, he starred as the titular character in the action-drama, Dolittle, which was released on March 29, 2020.

On television, Pattinson has appeared in The Handmaid’s Tale, as Harry Potter in The Secrets of Harry’s Wizardry, and as Thomas Hardy in The Man From U.N.C.L.E.. He also hosted TED MEDIA’s TED Movie Night, where he interviewed renowned personalities like Morgan Freeman, Elle MacLeman, and Richard Simmons. 

Pattinson is represented by the Gersh Agency in the UK, and LINK Entertainment in the U.S.

Personal Life

Though he is best known as an actor, Pattinson is no stranger to tabloids. His personal life has been the subject of numerous headlines. The handsome hunk has been in a relationship with British journalist, Katie Rich, since 2013. The pair had been photographed on more than one occasion holding hands while walking and dining together. They have two children, a daughter named Stella, born in 2017, and a son named Matilda, born in 2019. 

Pattinson also has a close bond with his siblings, especially his older brother, Alexander. The siblings were close growing up, with Karen often traveling internationally with Stephen for work. While she was away, Pattinson and his brother would entertain themselves by drawing and painting. The two even collaborated on a graphic novel, which was published in 2016. In addition to his acting career, Pattinson has been a practicing vegan since 2013, and an avid animal rights activist. He supports a wide range of charities, including the Humane Society of UK, the Walking With The Wounded charity, and the Direct Relief International. 

Filmography

Pattinson’s acting career has mostly been in film, but he has also appeared on television. Here is a complete list of the major films and shows in which he has appeared.

  • The Lost Children of Philanthropos (2010) – Young John William Wilder
  • God of Carnage (2010) – Gerald Crawley
  • The Rover (2011) – David Paterson
  • The Handmaid’s Tale (2011) – Roderick
  • A Most Violent Year (2012) – Dr. Wilder
  • The Lighthouse (2019) – Jacky Faber
  • Good Omens (2019) – Michael Montfort (voice)
  • Dolittle (2020) – Dolittle

In 2019, Pattinson made the decision to shorten his name to “Robert”. His agent confirmed that the change was made to “simplify his life”. It is believed that he will continue to use “Pattinson” as a middle name, however.

Theater

Aside from acting, Pattinson has also dabbled in theater. In 2020, he will appear in the role of Richard III in the Nottingham Playhouse’s production of Richard III. It will be his third appearance in the role, with two previous productions in London. In June 2021, he will star in the role of King Lear at the London Palladium.

The Future

The last few years have seen a rise in the careers of young British stars. While Pattinson has mostly stayed true to his art, recently he has decided to branch out, appearing in various interviews and social media posts to reveal more about himself. 

The actor has stated that he would like to take on more dramatic roles in the future. At the same time, he has hinted at a possible run for public office. In 2022, he will be seen in the lead role of Macbeth at Shakespeare’s Globe in London. But for now, he will continue to be featured in major film roles, as he has firmly established himself as one of the most in-demand British actors of his generation.