Sad news looms over the film world today, as actor Alan Rickman has died. He passed away from cancer at the age of 69.
A statement from his family reads: "The actor and director Alan Rickman has died from cancer at the age of 69. He was surrounded by family and friends."
Rickman was born in Hammersmith, London in 1946 and found success on both the stage and screen. He was a member of the Royal Shakespeare Company, and starred in Hollywood films like Die Hard, Robinhood: Prince of Thieves, Love Actually, Dogma, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy and Sense and Sensibility.
From 2001 until 2011, he played the role of Professor Severus Snape in the blockbuster Harry Potter film series.
Accolades throughout his career included a BAFTA Award, a Golden Globe, an Emmy and a SAG Award.
A smattering of co-stars and fans have paid their respects on social media, and you'll find some of those touching tributes below.
A statement from his family reads: "The actor and director Alan Rickman has died from cancer at the age of 69. He was surrounded by family and friends."
Rickman was born in Hammersmith, London in 1946 and found success on both the stage and screen. He was a member of the Royal Shakespeare Company, and starred in Hollywood films like Die Hard, Robinhood: Prince of Thieves, Love Actually, Dogma, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy and Sense and Sensibility.
From 2001 until 2011, he played the role of Professor Severus Snape in the blockbuster Harry Potter film series.
Accolades throughout his career included a BAFTA Award, a Golden Globe, an Emmy and a SAG Award.
A smattering of co-stars and fans have paid their respects on social media, and you'll find some of those touching tributes below.
There are no words to express how shocked and devastated I am to hear of Alan Rickman's death. He was a magnificent actor & a wonderful man.
— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) January 14, 2016
I'm very sad to hear about Alan today. I feel so lucky to have worked and spent time with such a special man and actor. I'll really miss our conversations. RIP Alan. We love you
Posted by Emma Watson on Thursday, 14 January 2016
What desperately sad news about Alan Rickman. A man of such talent, wicked charm & stunning screen & stage presence. He'll be sorely missed
— Stephen Fry (@stephenfry) January 14, 2016
Terribly sad news about the passing of Alan Rickman. A funny and engaging person who put a shy young actor at ease when I was on HP.
— Oliver Phelps (@OliverPhelps) January 14, 2016
Farewell my friend.Your kindness & generosity ever since we met in LA in 1987 & ever since is incalculable.XX pic.twitter.com/BCUkCxMFj5
— Richard E. Grant (@RichardEGrant) January 14, 2016