Remembering Alan Rickman: A Tribute to the Legendary Actor

Google honored the late English actor Alan Rickman by dedicating a special Google Doodle on April 30, 2023. They celebrated his extraordinary acting career, particularly his memorable performance in the play Les Liaisons Dangereuses. This play was a big turning point for him and made him a beloved actor. In this article, we will tell you all about Alan Rickman and his incredible contributions to the world of entertainment. Let’s dive in and celebrate his life and achievements.

Alan Rickman’s Early Life and Career

Alan Sidney Patrick Rickman, a cherished British actor renowned for his distinct voice and exceptional abilities in theater and film, was born on February 21, 1946, in Hammersmith, London. His family was not wealthy, and they worked ordinary jobs to make a living. Alan Rickman and his siblings, David, Michael, and Sheila, had an interesting childhood. Their father was a strong Catholic believer, while their mother practiced the Methodist faith.

His dad, Bernard William Rickman, worked as a plane fixer during World War II, while his mom, Margaret Doreen Rose, was a Welsh lady who worked in a factory, painted houses, and took care of their home. Rickman also had Irish roots from his dad’s mom. He was born with a birth flaw that made his jaw tight, which gave him a deep and smooth voice that would later make him really famous.

At the age of eight, Rickman’s father sadly passed away from cancer, leaving his mother and three siblings behind. Margaret Rickman got married again in 1960 but split up with her second husband three years later. Even when he was a kid, Rickman showed talent in painting, typography, and fancy handwriting. In his younger years, he went to different schools, such as West Acton First School, Derwentwater Primary School in Acton, and Latymer Upper School in London. It was at Latymer Upper School where he delved into the world of plays and acting. 

Continuing his studies, Rickman attended Chelsea College of Art and Design from 1965 to 1968, and then went on to study at the Royal College of Art from 1968 to 1970.During his time at the Royal College of Art, he honed his skills as a graphic designer, engaging in the creation of the college’s magazine.

Together with his friends, Rickman started a graffiti business but eventually decided to become an actor. 

Alan Rickman: Career 

Rickman started his acting career on stage. He performed with different theater groups all over the United Kingdom. In the year 1985, he gained considerable fame for his portrayal of Vicomte de Valmont in a theatrical piece called “Les Liaisons Dangereuses” performed by the esteemed Royal Shakespeare Company. This play was so successful that it went to Broadway in 1987. Rickman was even nominated for a special prize called a Tony Award for his great performance.

Then, in 1988, Rickman made his first appearance in a movie called “Die Hard.” He played the role of a bad guy named Hans Gruber. This role showed how talented and versatile he was as an actor. Following that, he graced the silver screen with his remarkable talent, captivating audiences in numerous blockbuster films such as “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves,” “Sense and Sensibility,” and “An Awfully Big Adventure.”

Yet, it was his unforgettable performance as the mysterious Professor Severus Snape in the incredibly beloved Harry Potter movies that transformed Rickman into a true superstar. In this role, he evoked a simultaneous mix of adoration and disdain from viewers, who were captivated by both his brilliance and their conflicted feelings towards his character.

He played Snape with so much depth and complexity that he became a favorite of fans all around the world. Because of his amazing performance, he was nominated for a special award called a BAFTA Award.

Rickman’s Impressive Awards

Rickman was a highly acclaimed actor, and he received many awards and honors for his amazing work. He has received several awards in the entertainment industry, including the Golden Globe Award, Primetime Emmy Award, BAFTA Award, Online Film Critics Society Award, and Screen Actor Guild Award. However, it is interesting to know that he chose not to accept the Commander of the Order of the British Empire accolade (the CBE), and the reasons for this decision remain unknown.

Alan Rickman’s Wife: Rima Horton

Alan Rickman got married to his longtime partner, Rima Horton, in 2012. Their wedding was a secret. They were together for 50 years, having met when Rickman was only 19 years old. They started living together in 1997.

Alan Rickman’s Death

Alan Rickman sadly passed away after a short fight against pancreatic cancer. Following a minor stroke in August 2015, he received a diagnosis indicating his condition. Pancreatic cancer is known for its rapid and highly aggressive nature. Alan lost his battle with it just five months later, on January 14, 2016, in London. He was 69 years old.

Before facing pancreatic cancer, Alan had also dealt with prostate cancer in the mid-2000s. He had a surgery called prostatectomy in January 2006, right before filming the fifth Harry Potter movie.

Alan Rickman’s funeral was a small, private ceremony attended only by close family and friends. He was cremated on February 3, 2016, at Kensal Green’s West London Crematorium.His ashes were given to his wife, Rima Horton, but it’s unknown what she has chosen to do with them.

Since his passing, people have held celebrations to honor and remember Alan Rickman’s life and work. He will always be remembered for his talent and contributions to the entertainment industry.

Bottom Line

Alan Rickman, a renowned actor of extraordinary talent, made an unforgettable impact on the realm of entertainment. From his early career on stage to his iconic roles in movies like Harry Potter, his talent and versatility captivated audiences around the world. Despite his untimely death due to pancreatic cancer, Rickman’s legacy will continue to be celebrated and remembered, ensuring that his contributions to the industry will never be forgotten.