‘Harry Potter’ ‘Die Hard’ star Alan Rickman dead at age 69

Actor Alan Rickman, known for films including Harry Potter, Die Hard and Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, has died at the age of 69.

The star was suffering from cancer, his family said.

He became one of Britain’s best-loved acting stars thanks to roles including Professor Snape in the Harry Potter franchise and the villain Hans Gruber in Die Hard.

Alan Rickman as Snape

He also won a Bafta Award for playing the Sheriff of Nottingham in 1991’s Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.

A family statement said: “The actor and director Alan Rickman has died from cancer at the age of 69. He was surrounded by family and friends.”

James Phelps, who played Fred Weasley, said on Twitter he was “shocked and sad” to hear the news. He wrote: “One of the nicest actors I’ve ever met. Thoughts and prayers with his family at this time.”

His twin brother Oliver Phelps, who played George Weasley, added: “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.”

Stephen Fry wrote: “What desperately sad news about Alan Rickman. A man of such talent, wicked charm and stunning screen and stage presence. He’ll be sorely missed.”

Actor David Morrissey also paid tribute. He said: “So sad to hear the news of Alan Rickman. A wonderful actor and lovely man. Tragic news.

Born in London, Rickman began in theatre, including with the Royal Shakespeare Company, before landing TV roles Smiley’s People and The Barchester Chronicles in the 1980s.

He became best known for playing screen villains, the role of Judge Turpin opposite Johnny Depp in 2007’s Sweeney Todd as well as the likes of Hans Gruber and the Sheriff of Nottingham.