Rickman made his film debut in 1988, playing the villainous Hans Gruber in Die Hard. He soon became known for his distinctive voice and his ability to portray complex and charismatic characters, often with a dark or humorous edge. Some of his most memorable roles include the Sheriff of Nottingham in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, Colonel Brandon in Sense and Sensibility, Harry in Love Actually, and Severus Snape in the Harry Potter series.
Rickman also directed and wrote two films: The Winter Guest (1997) and A Little Chaos (2014). He was also involved in many charitable causes and supported various arts organizations. He was awarded several honors for his contributions to the film and theatre industry, such as a BAFTA Award, a Golden Globe Award, an Emmy Award, and a Screen Actors Guild Award.
Rickman died on January 14, 2016, at the age of 69, after a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was survived by his wife Rima Horton, whom he married in 2012 after a long-term relationship. He was widely mourned by his fans, colleagues, and friends, who remembered him as a brilliant actor and a kind and generous person.