Alan Rickman (1946-2016) was a British actor known for his captivating performances on stage, film, and television. He was born in Hammersmith, London and began his career as a graphic designer before pursuing acting at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art.
Rickman first gained recognition for his role as the villainous Hans Gruber in the 1988 action film "Die Hard." He went on to deliver memorable performances in a variety of films, including "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves," "Sense and Sensibility," "Love Actually," and the Harry Potter film series, in which he portrayed the character of Severus Snape.
In addition to his work in film, Rickman was also an accomplished stage actor, with notable performances in productions of "Les Liaisons Dangereuses" and "Private Lives." He was also a director, having helmed productions of "The Winter Guest" and "My Name is Rachel Corrie."
Rickman was widely regarded as a talented actor, known for his distinctive voice, nuanced performances, and ability to bring complex characters to life on screen. He received numerous awards and nominations throughout his career, including a Golden Globe and a BAFTA Award. He passed away in 2016 at the age of 69 after a battle with cancer.