Profile of the Day: Alan Rickman

Posted January 14, 2016 by Amanda | No Comment

Alan Rickman

Today we remember actor Alan Rickman, who has passed away at the age of 69. A versatile actor, Rickman showcased his remarkable talent on both the stage and silver screen. He is perhaps best known for playing Severus Snape in the Harry Potter film franchise as well as his villainous roles in Die Hard and Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.

Born on February 21, 1946 in London, England, Rickman was the second son born to working class parents. His father died at the age of 8, leaving his mother to raise him and his siblings alone. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art before working with the prestigious Royal Shakespeare Company.

Rickman first rose to fame as the evil Hans Gruber in the first Die Hard film. Although he was often type-cast as a villain, Rickman took on a variety roles that illustrated his diverse range, including the comedy Galaxy Quest and the romantic period drama Sense and Sensibility. In 2001, Rickman would take on his most famous and iconic role as Professor Severus Snape in the Harry Potter film series. Rickman was J.K. Rowling’s personal choice to portray the famous character. When he was cast, he became one of the few who would know of Rowling’s future plans for the character.

On January 14, 2016, Rickman died in London after suffering from cancer. He was surrounded by family and friends.

RIP Alan Rickman.