Tony Robinson

Renaissance man Tony Robinson is an actor, author, comedian, and vocal Labour Party member, who leapt into the performing arts at age 12, appearing as one of the street urchins in the original theatrical production of "Oliver!" After training at London's Central School of Speech and Drama, he joined a repertory theater, where he honed his comedic chops.

In the 1970s, he broke into British television and made his mark on the comedy sketch series "Little Big Time." This led to the role for which he's best remembered: Baldrick, the odd but ever loyal sidekick to Rowan Atkinson's "Black Adder," the star of the popular BBC historical sitcom. Robinson went on to reprise this evolving role in several "Black Adder" incarnations, while writing for and appearing as a reader on the children's storytelling series "Jackanory."

He has gone on to write numerous children's books and has continued in children's television, writing and co-starring in the "Robin Hood" inspired comedy "Maid Marian and Her Merry Men," which earned him a BAFTA nomination in 1991. Robinson's thirst for knowledge has led to more serious endeavors, hosting educational programs like the archeological documentary series "Time Team" and investigative doc specials like "The Real Da Vinci Code."

Robinson was also the vice president of the U.K. actors' union, Equity, from 1996 to 2000. His contributions to education and the arts have earned him honorary degrees from a number of universities, as well as a James Joyce Award in 2008.