Alan Rickman

Alan Rickman
Rickman in 2011
Born	(1946-02-21)21 February 1946 Acton, London, England
Died	14 January 2016(2016-01-14) (aged 69) London, England
Alma mater	Royal Academy of Dramatic Art
Occupations	Actor director
Years active	1974–2016
Spouse	Rima Horton ​ (m. 2012)​

Biography

Alan Rickman was an English actor and director, celebrated for his powerful voice, nuanced performances, and magnetic screen presence. Born on February 21, 1946, in Hammersmith, London, Rickman originally pursued graphic design before turning to acting at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). His rich baritone and commanding demeanor quickly made him a sought-after actor in theater, film, and television.

Rickman’s early stage work, particularly with the Royal Shakespeare Company, showcased his talent for classical roles. He gained widespread recognition in 1988 with his breakout film role as the cunning villain Hans Gruber in Die Hard, which instantly established him as a memorable screen antagonist. His ability to blend menace with charm became a hallmark of his performances.

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Rickman demonstrated remarkable versatility. He portrayed the complex Sheriff of Nottingham in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991), the sensitive romantic lead in Sense and Sensibility (1995), and the wise Professor Severus Snape in the globally successful Harry Potter film series (2001–2011). His role as Snape endeared him to millions, highlighting his skill at conveying depth, conflict, and subtle emotion.

Beyond acting, Rickman directed films such as The Winter Guest (1997) and A Little Chaos (2014), showing his talent behind the camera. He was also known for his charitable work and thoughtful, articulate interviews, revealing a deeply intelligent and compassionate personality.

Rickman’s distinctive presence and dedication to his craft earned him critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase. He passed away on January 14, 2016, after a battle with pancreatic cancer, leaving behind a rich legacy. Alan Rickman remains remembered as one of Britain’s most extraordinary actors, whose performances continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

Music (likes)

Two Paddock's Top Ten Tunes (2017)

• I Won't Dance - Fred Astaire
• I'm Easy - Keith Carradine
• Lily, Rosemary, and the Jack of Hearts - Bob Dylan
• The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face - Roberta Flack
• Desperado - Langley Schools Music Project
• Dancing in the Street - Martha and The Vandellas
• Real Good For Free - Joni Mitchell
• Coney Island - Van Morrison
• You've Lost That Loving Feeling - The Righteous Brothers
• Imagination - Little Jimmy Scott