2016 is turning out to be a devastating year. The same week that the world loses an icon like David Bowie, we also lose a mensch like Alan Rickman. Alan Rickman is the brilliant and velvet-voiced actor best known for playing Hans Gruber in Die Hard, Colonel Brandon in Sense & Sensibility, Severus Snape in the Harry Potter films, Harry in Love Actually and so, so much more. Rickman, like Bowie, was quietly and secretly battling cancer. He is survived by his long-time partner Rima Horton. There were some reports over the past few years that they were secretly married at some point (2012?), but British papers are just going with “partner” rather than “wife” right now. Rickman and Horton knew each other for 50 years and they were a couple since 1977. His family released this statement:
“The actor and director Alan Rickman has died from cancer at the age of 69. He was surrounded by family and friends.”
This is so sad. I honestly and truly had no idea he was sick at all. He seemed like one of those hearty Englishmen who would live to be 100. Rest in peace and much love to his family.
photo credit: WENN.com
Heartbreaking. Such a wonderful talent. I will truly miss seeing him on the screen.
Yes, he will be missed.
Loved him since “Truly Madly Deeply” and recommend it highly.
Sheer, utter, gutting sadness.
Oh my god, it really hits me. What a loss, what a great man.
I read this just as I was going into a team meeting in the office. I started the meeting with this announcement 🙁
I am heartbroken
Horrible news! One of my favorite actors- so sad.
I’m so upset. Cancer has taken two wonderful talents this week. Cancer sucks and I’m incredibly sad.
RIP
Cancer is awful!
I don’t know if he was a smoker, though I think david bowie was. That generation got screwed. The started smoking young, everybody did it, they got hooked just as it was coming out that smoking was bad for you. Even though your risks go down dramatically if you quit, I wonder if early smoking is bad later on? Leonard Nimoy blamed early smoking on the COPD that would later take his life. My mom has peripheral artery disease from smoking, her friend has lung cancer, my uncle died from smoking related cancer. What a horrible horrible product cigarettes are!
Ok, rant over, I don’t even know if Alan Rickman smoked. But, I loved him as the Sheriff of Nottingham! That’s a good actor who can do both drama and comedy seamlessly.
F-ing cancer. I’m just gonna use this sad occasion to plug a great book titled “The China study”. If you or anyone around you is battling cancer, GO READ IT. Everyone with any interest in their health should read it really. My mom’s friend is battling breast cancer atm, I think I might give it to her.
Redd, you could not be more correct. I’m the same generation, although I was toddling around when Rickman and Bowie were born. Smoking was cool, all the cool kids did it, etc. And so I began at the age of 19.
Today I have advanced COPD. I can’t walk ten feet without having to stop to catch my breath. It’s a miserable, devastating illness, and it seems to take forever to kill you. I realized I had something wrong 20 years ago when, living at the beach, my son-in-law gave me a beach cruiser and I hopped on and could not ride to the end of the block. I never leave the house, because walking out to the car leaves me gasping for about five minutes before I can fasten my seat belt.
Best advice I could ever give anyone: Quit smoking, and if you don’t smoke, don’t start.
Syko, I’m so sorry to read that.
May I ask how long it took for symptoms to show after you started smoking? Did you smoke a lot?
Another good book – Easyway to stop smoking. It’s a classic but reviews are crazy, so many people give up after reading it. Quite aa few of my friends recommended it to me. I actually bought the book and started reading but wasn’t ready, the author kept saying “Keep smoking while reading, you’ll soon lose interest in it anyway” and at some point I thought screw it, I wanna keep smoking lol so I put the book away. Miraculously, woke up one day a few months later and realised cig taste was soo disgusting. I read about all the rat poison and carpet glue and heavy metals found in cigs quite extensively in the weeks prior to that so that might’ve worked. Haven’t smoked in 3 years now, and I actually wanna barf when someone smokes close to me even when I’m outside. And I LOOOVED cigarettes. Definitely not a “3 or 4 a day with coffee” kind of person. If I didn’t stop, I always joked that I’d move to shooting nicotine up sooner or later
Redd – how right you are! My father had just recently passed away and everything you said was so so spot on. He started smoking when he was so young and basically he was screwed. He couldn’t quit and after so many years smoking, he’d become reliant on it. Even when death was imminent. He was diagnosed with lung cancer and was struggling with his COPD. While I’m not sure what ultimately killed him, it was really just that his lungs failed him. They just stopped working like they were supposed to.
Sad. Really reading these secret battles with cancer.
Smoking does cause cancer and you’re right on with that generation particularly not being aware at the time of the consequences…. but so many people still get cancer that have never smoked, eat right and are healthy. Cancer is an unholy b*tch.
The world makes less sense now. I am devastated. Colonel Brandon, Severus Snape, Metatron, Judge Turpin, Hans Gruber…I even watch that cheese-ball movie ‘Love Actually’ every time it’s on, in part thanks to him. Looks like Alice Through The Looking Glass will be Alan’s last film – the caterpillar who became a butterfly 🙁 . Goodbye, velvet voice.
Truly awful. No more of these deaths are allowed, I totally forbid it for the rest of 2016.
NOOO!!
My first reaction!!!
Me too!!!
Nooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Same here.
Me too. I’m absolutely gutted. He was a great man, wonderful actor.
So sad.
Mine too. I didn’t believe it at first. I loved him, his voice, and the hilarious biting sarcasm he brought to so many roles. Even my husband was horrified, like, “WHAT?! No way!” and he cares very little about actors and celebrities.
mine too. I have been numb since hearing about Bowie, and now this? Mr L told me this morning and I have been saddened and all “f u cancer!!” all day….enough already. Enough. I am sick for the families…I am sad.
I am in shock. He was truly one of my favorites! I remember after watching Sense & Sensibility, I had a huge crush on him and that amazing voice! I wish I could go home from work and cuddle up watching his movies. Rest In Peace Mr. Rickman.
So true….S&S was his most memorable role for me too. He was a truly talented man who will be missed.
Me too! Every month, when I’m hormonal I put in S&S and crush on Colonel Brandon. 😢
Such a heartbreaking week. My condolences to his family.
oh my he was so charming in S&S, mega crush. . . that voice was so devastatingly lovely to hear. RIP
🙁 R.I.P.
Never crushed on Alan Rickman, but definitely felt he was one-of-a-kind. Loved him in everything he did and will miss him every time I revisit his movies. In fact, in honour of Mr. Rickman, I think I’ll be watching Sense & Sensibility when I get home tonight. RIP.
Mine too. I adored him as an actor. I’ve been sitting here, speechless. I don’t know what to say, I don’t even feel like watching one of his movies now… This is very sad, I’ll miss him greatly. Yet, I know that’s the natural way it goes.
This year is taking away our good artists!
“This year is taking away our good artists!”
+100 to this. Within a few weeks we have lost Natalie Cole, David Bowie and now Alan Rickman.
And we’re not even half way through January, yet.
Oh come on! This can’t be happening! I’m on denial for the rest of the day. I’ll be in my couch wrapped in blankets watching all of the Harry Potter movies eating ice cream & crying. Rest in Peace you great human being.
My first reaction was also “NOOoooo”. I don’t usually cry over people’s deaths that I don’t know personally, but I’m bawling like a baby over this. 🙁
same here. For some reason, Bowie and now dear Rickman just got to me hard. I know three friends going thru chemo this week too. All this research, all this money, and we can’t kick the beast into oblivion.
Brave men….fighting this hell quietly, still creating til the end. the Guardian said he recorded something, VO, just in November for a children’s thing.
I yelled NO! too 🙁
Me too! He was such a standout with that rich voice. Loved him in everything he was in!
Me too -“noooo!!!!!” – nearly drove off a roundabout when I heard it on the radio. Somehow this is hitting me even harder than the loss of Bowie. Two fantastic legends, both 69, both cancer, same week… what’s next? I am going to carefully trawl through his movie catalogue and watch everything. Absolutely everything. What a sad loss. RIP, oh mellifluous-voiced one.
me too. 🙁
i have actually never posted here but alan rickman’s death brought me out of lurkdom. such a fine gentleman he always seemd to be. what a loss!
This was my reaction too. Alan Rickman was a consummate actor, no matter the role. He was bone-chilling in “Die Hard” and the Harry Potter movies. I watched “Bottle Shock” just a few weeks ago simply because he’s in it, and he elevated that movie by his presence.
2016 had better be dealing all its sh!t at the beginning and will be getting better soon. We can’t take much more of this.
So sad. So very sad.
Rest in Peace you lovely man.
You and your talent will be greatly missed.
Truly, madly, deeply reeling.
This is a man who deserved an Oscar but was never even nominated. What a loss to the arts.
IKR! He deserved it for so many roles, but I really wanted him to be nominated for Snape especially. I don’t think I can watch HP or S&S or Love Actually for a while now.
He will be honoured at the upcoming ceremony for sure
Nooo! He was such a gifted actor, I loved him! So sad.
Truly, madly, deeply for me too. That’s how I fell in love with him.
I’m going to dig out my DVD of The Barchester Chronicles this evening. And even by December 2016, I think I’ll still be feeling as though I should “call off Christmas”.
Thanks, Alan. You bottled fame, brewed glory but even you couldn’t put a stopper in death. I will miss you.
well said Sixer 🙁
Crying, Sixer. That’s so perfect.
And LilacFlowers, just goes to show you that the statues don’t really count in the end. He was universally beloved, that much is so clear.
Thank you Sixer. And Rickman was one of those few whose talent was self-evident and undeniable.
Lovely sentiment, Sixer
Sixer, you rcomment pushed me over the edge from sad and angry and cursing, to tears.
That movie was my favorite Alan Rickman film. I will remember his voice for good. RIP Mr. Rickman.
Break my heart! That was the first movie I saw him in. I was a teenager and had an instant crush. I will be watching it tonight.
I love seeing all the Truly, Madly, Deeply references here. What a wonderful movie.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=AZ52td1GMT0
Very sad. He was a great talent who deserved the Oscar than a lot of young starlets these days winning multiple Golden Globes and Oscars for mediocre work. I hate that I won’t see Alan Rickman in anymore movies.
Truly, madly, deeply… yes. For you, Lilacflowers:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AZ52td1GMT0
Thank you
Indeed. So gifted and without pretense. I imagined he would be a major contributor for a long time to come. From Ang Lee’s Sense & Sensibility https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_kEJwQgAaQ
He’s become legendary through his many roles that captivated people all over the world. He doesn’t need a damn statue to prove his worth to the world of entertainment. He has a long and prosperous career that any actor would give their left nut to have.
RIP Colonel Brandon, you will be sorely missed.
Somewhere, Alan is playing that cello while looking down and critiquing the rugs in Juliet Stevenson’s house.
**weeps**
*passes Kleenex*. This hurts so much.
I jut can’t… The week is not even over!!!
Two icons dying of cancer at the same age, I’m broken
Two 69 year old British icons dying of cancer in the same week.
@lilacflowers
That is true, they were the same age. So sad
Throw in Natalie Cole’s death and its just……………..
Age 69 is not that old and they both should have had years ahead of them – I feel so bad for their families especially.
And Lemmy from Motorhead recently too. Bowie’s death left me sad, Alan Rickman has left me gutted. RIP, Colonel Brandon.
Ugh. Can’t handle it. 2 true artists and gentlemen. What loss. BTW – became of fan of Rickman after Sense and Sensibility. He was the best thing in that movie.
Seriously, WTF is happening? Last week I had to put my 15 year old cat down (not that I’m comparing it to this, just that it was a hard thing for me to deal with), then the loss of Bowie and now Alan freaking Rickman???
Excuse me while I go have a cry-fest in the corner. Enough already, cruddy 2016.
I’m sorry about your cat. That’s rough.
No, don’t apologise, those of us who love our pets know that to lose one is like losing an arm – a member of the family – same difference, they are part of the fabric of your life. I’m sorry about you losing your cat – it’s a sh** thing to go through. Losing Bowie and Rickman – same difference – part of the fabric of your life and now just gone, shockingly, tearing the understanding of the fabric of ones own existence, equally shitty and equally unsettling.
Oh, @LadyMTL I’m so sorry to hear about your cat. Furbabies are our families too and I know that’s a huge loss for you. Sending extra hugs your way.
I’m sorry about your kitty, LadyMTL. I lost Old Cat a few months back and was inconsolable. Like Frisbee says: they are family members.
So sorry about your cat…losing a family member is heartbreaking. Sending hugs…
I am sorry about your kitty. I had to do that with my kitty and I still cry at the loss. They are not just pets, they are family. ((hugs(((
I had to do that in November with my 15-year-old dog (found her as a pup on the street) and am still heartbroken. Not to minimize the deaths of Bowie & Rickman (all our lives will be a little sadder without their brilliance), but nothing compares to the love of someone you love right there in your space, someone you feed and care for and who cares for you right back. Sending a virtual hug.
I am so sorry about the cat. Ours is about 16 (we got her a couple years ago because her previous owners decided to leave her with strangers(us) who were buying their house rather than take her with them). I’m constantly just worrying about her. I hate that there’s going to come a day where I’m going to have to make a really hard call.
Thanks so much for all of the kind words and love. It has been hard since I lost him (I live alone and now I really feel it) but it helps immensely when I get such support from people I don’t even know. 🙂
Now if the rest of the year could just improve – no more shocking losses like Bowie and Rickman please! – I think I will be ok.
I feel that too. We have two old animals — one of whom almost died last year — and every time they look at me funny I worry.
And Alan Rickman. This is so sad. I wanted him to come to the island and read us bed time stories, frisbee!! And, if I may say so, he smoulders in that photo with that hat.
LadyMTL, we had to put our sweet boy to sleep in July, and it broke my heart. He was a ginger Tom and just a loving, funny little creature. Hang in there. I’m starting to be able to smile at the good memories and not cry every time I think I hear or see him. You’ll never stop missing him, but it does get less painful. ❤️
Sorry on the loss of your cat. Can’t imagine how I’m going to feel when I have to make that decision for my cats. The day I had to put down the family dog (I’m not a dog person by any means), I cried all day and that night my daughter got her house cleaned (I was babysitting and couldn’t just sit there).
@bluhare – that voice…we can’t take him – but we can take this…(sniff)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xP06F0yynic
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngH8ZGOEoeM
Sorry about your fur baby dying. *hugs* I lost my 17 year old cat 6 years ago on Jan. 18th. Still difficult to think of, she was one of the family and my best friend. I remember the date because today is my youngest son’s birthday and I waited to have her PTS a few days later so he wouldn’t be sad on and associate his birthday with her passing. (He was the same age as her when she died; they grew up together.)
So, so sorry for your loss, LadyMTL. Kitty loss is a special kind of horrible. I had to bury my best friend’s outdoor kitty while they were on vacation because he was bitten by a snake. Worst experience of my life. My thoughts are with you and the furry love that will forever live in your heart.
I don’t think you owe anyone an apology for comparing the loss of your pet to what one might feel for another human being. Pets are often extremely integrated into the rhythm of one’s life, and so, to their owners, they are worthy of intense grief when the time comes to say goodbye. I am so sorry for your loss.
Adopt another kitty or foster one, that’s what helped me. I was a mess after my doggy died, took in a foster within 10 days and it has helped me so much. There’s never gonna be another one like her but I’m at peace now with her death. Giving all the love and safety and warm bed that your pet enjoyed to a homeless one is what they’d have wanted for sure 🙂
I am so sorry, lost three of mine in less than one yr ages 10 to 16
LadyMTL, so sorry about your loss and like everyone here, I understand too. They are family, and it is devastating too in its own way. Been there not long ago and giving our two remaining oldies (11 and 14) an extra brushing in your kitty’s honor.
Erinn — you’re a great person to take on that poor older cat! Good for you.
LadyMTL, I’m sending a warm, empathetic hug your way. My Mom and I were given a baby meowzer when I was 9 years old and she lived for 17 1/2 years. Our little Missy loved me the most from the moment we first met so it was especially difficult for me to say goodbye. Its been 13 years and I still mourn from time to time. Mostly though, I think of how she brought great joy and beauty into our daily lives.
I’m guessing you were both lucky to have each other. I wish you grace in the days, months and years to come and an appreciation for all the love the two of you were able to share. ❤
I’m so sorry for all of you. Losing a pet is soul-destroying. I started crying yesterday telling someone about burying my dog and that was almost 9 years ago. Dlo,my heart goes out to you, I wish I could help. I’m very much afraid the same thing is going to happen to me.
His voice… I loved his voice. He had such a presence on the screen, so unconventionally sexy.
I hate to say this, but things happen in 3s… =/
As someone who grew up with Harry Potter, this really hit me.
Rest in peace, Mr Rickman.
No one could have done a better job playing the man we love to hate and sort of love. RIP, Severus. Watching those films will never be the same, and I’m stricken by this.
“After all this time, Severus?”
“Always”
Always
Just found this on Youtube – Snape in his own words, I hope it plays where you are…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i16NigDQ2HA
Thanks Frisbee, I’ll play it for my kids who think Professor Snape is Epic.
My older son was very attached to his character.
@frisbee – just watched it. Thank you!
Can we please cancel 2016?
Yes, yes we can.
Pretty please? *sobs*
good idea, let’s do it, if we ignore it long enough it might just go away.
I’m out already.
It isn’t starting off very well, is it?
I know… First Bowie, now Rickman?? I’m hating how this year is starting out.
This. I’ve had it up to here with this year and it’s only been there for two weeks. 2016 needs to take a long, hard look at itself and have several seats.
I was devastated over Bowie, but Alan Rickman’s death hit me even harder, if that’s possible. In fact, I might start bawling any minute, which makes me feel like a tweenage 1D fangirl. HP was such a huge, indispensable part of my childhood and life, and Alan Rickman played a crucial part in that.
So long, Severus. You will be sorely missed.
Me too, SugarQuill. Me too. I read a text from my mom about it as I was getting out of class. I had to sit in the lobby to process for a second and then I just burst into tears. He feels like family. The world of Harry Potter is part of who I am at the very core, and this is a huge loss.
“When I’m 80 years old and sitting in my rocking chair, I’ll be reading Harry Potter. And my family will say to me, ‘After all this time?’ And I will say, ‘Always.'” – Alan Rickman
😭😭😭
I am all for that. It has totally sucked for me personally so far too. After a downward slide in the last quarter of 2015, I’ve been trying so hard for 2016 to start well… and it just isn’t cooperating with me.
Here’s an interesting video where Rickman talks about playing the role of Severus Snape. I found it very interesting and hope some of you do too:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KyKrzGjekqA
2 legends in one week? Noooooooooo this can’t be happening. This can’t be real life 😟
oh crap.
This is awful.
Wonderful actor, RIP.
Ouch. This one really hurts.
Just a magnificent artist and all respect to him for keeping private what he wanted private.
Absolutely tragic.
The sun ain’t gonna shine anymore…
Wtf is wrong with 2016 ?
Just STOP please.
Rip Mr. Rickman.
There are no words…
Nooooooo. 🙁
Christ, 2016 is horrible so far. First Bowie, and now Alan Rickman.
RIP Col. Brandon & Snape. Always.
What the hell…
Same age, same disease, same week.
Ugh.
Oh, hell. 2016 needs to go away now. He was so wonderful.
No, NO!
Truly, Madly, Deeply; Sense and Sensibility; Love Actually, so many others..
I’ll add in Winter Guest with Emma Thompson, which he directed but does not appear in. Fine hand in directing that beautiful film.
Very bad news!
This is such a loss, and to come in the same week as Bowie makes it even harder to digest. I know a lot of people will say his definitive role was Snape but I had so many favorite roles of his: Colonel Brandon in Sense and Sensibility, Jamie in Truly Madly Deeply, Dr. Lazarus in Galaxy Quest, and so on. RIP sir you will be missed.
He made Quigley Down Under, Die Hard, and Robin Hood not only watchable, but enjoyable. He could elevate anything.
First time I saw him was in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves with Kevin Costner. He played the Sheriff of Nottingham.
“It’s dull, you twit, it’ll hurt more!” and “Cancel the kitchen scraps for lepers and orphans, no more merciful be-headings, and call off Christmas!” God he was good.
His Sheriff of Nottingham was a perfect “so evil he’s funny” without resorting to antics. There’s a scene where he’s threatening Robin Hood that he will cut out his heart with a spoon. His doofus sidekick later asks “why a spoon?” and Rickman’s Nottingham answers, “Because it’s dull you twit, it’ll hurt more.” Hilarious. I laughed for weeks.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MhfuuKiTcYQ
Thanks you guys, you’re making me laugh despite the tears that keep seeping out. I’ve had such a crush on him since the 90s and have loved all of his work.
Goodbye Mr. RIckman, you will be so missed. My sympathies to his family and partner.
I’d totally forgotten he was in “Robin Hood” and “Quigley Down Under”. Must watch those again.
Thanks everyone for all the great video links.
He could class up any/every movie he was in, just by showing up.
Oh, Dr Lazarus! So much to remember.
This is so sad..
What the f*ck is going on??? I don’t want to believe this. Gosh, I hate cancer. May this enourmous, unforgettable artist rest in peace.
I.am.devastated to hear this!!
Thank you. ALWAYS.
A towering talent. To echo Lilac, I am truly, madly, deeply bereft.
Oh NO!!! This is one actor I revered. Don’t forget his turn in Sense & Sensibility. A truly great actor is gone far too soon. F*ck cancer.
There will only be ever one Colonel Brandon.
The Guardian reports he and Rima were married in 2012 and had been together since 1965.
Perhaps they married when he found out he was sick? I don’t know how the UK system works but maybe it was to ensure her ability to make decisions and such for him.
They were together for so long, I can’t imagine the pain of losing someone who is such a huge part of your entire life.
A truly sad loss to the world.
There’s no common-law marriage in the UK, so it would probably have simplified inheritance and estate tax arrangements, as well as end-of-life decision-making as you say. You’re probably right about illness being what prompted them to pull the trigger. A good decision, but what sad circumstances. 🙁
This one really hurts. I remember seeing him for the first time as the Sheriff of Nottingham in Robin Hood and being blown away. He was the perfect Snape.
Eff 2016 and eff cancer.
If it wasn’t enough that his voice was velvet, he had more charisma and character then ten regular actors. He literally stole Robin Hood from Kevin Costner. I’m going hate telling my son. Devastating.
Agreed. So sad. RIP.
Agreed.
This news breaks my heart. It’s shockingly sad.
I have been reading Sense and Sensibility over again and seeing Alan Rickman as Col. Brandon in my mind often. 🙁 🙁 🙁
I’m genuinely sad. By all accounts he was a lovely man…with such great charm and presence. May you rest in peace Mr. Rickman.
Damn cancer.
I thought he was wonderful in Die Hard and had a mad crush on him…so handsome and that voice. Well they have that “3” thing about celebs dying, David, now Alan. Hope it stops at two this time. Heaven has two new awesome angels. RIP
“Heaven has two new awesome angels.” – This made me smile. They’re probably having a drink and sharing stories right now 🙂
It’s already done. Natalie Cole was #1 🙁
I did forget about Natalie. It seems we get ourselves upset when celebs pass, and then a few days later life goes on as before. It’s sad in a way, but I guess you have to move on, they’re not part of our everyday life so you don’t dwell on their deaths as you would for a friend or family member. But these are all famous people whose bodies of work will live on. Life, death, infinity.
I literally started crying at work when I heard the news. He’s one of my all-time favorite actors and I was always sure that in 20 years he’d play Dumbledore in the inevitable HP reboot 🙁
” I was always sure that in 20 years he’d play Dumbledore in the inevitable HP reboot..”
That would have been awesome.
I know exactly what you mean, GlimmerBunny. Joanne and the HP actors have long ceased to be mere mortals in my mind. I foolishly keep thinking that they will go on to live forever. And they will, in a way, I guess.
I need to go lie down. 🙁
These people ar droping like flies. And to think these are brilliant and innovative peoples of the art.
I really admire though that they kept their cancer away from the public.. Oh well, this is why life is very short. So everyone don’t take yourself seriously and laugh alot and live life to the fullest… R. I. P Alan Rickman you will be dearly missed as well.
I’M happy for them that they were able to keep it private. IT was awful the way we all watched Patrick Swayze die. (At least I thought it was)
It was. Once his illness was known, he had no privacy when he was in public (and very sad photos were taken and published).
+1000
No. Just no. It can’t be true.
F*k cancer. Seriously.
As heartbreaking as it is, I’m glad both men were able to hold on to their privacy so that they and their families could deal with it on their terms.
So am I. People can be very invasive and even insensitive. That can apply to family members, not just the general public.
Oh yeah. Families are usually good, but there’s always that one idiot…Hopefully not in this case.
My thoughts are with his family and friends.
So true. Will never forget the photohogs that were always trying to take secret pictures of Steve Jobs when he was dx with cancer. Even when it looked his worst they splashed his photo everywhere. Can understand why they keep it a secret.
Shocked again, twice in a week. Didn’t expect it at all and was looking forward to more films with Rickman. Very sad.
This one really really hurts. I am so sad 🙁 RIP Alan Rickman, forever the perfect Severus Snape 🙁
Alan Rickman AND David Bowie within a week! And I’m still smarting that Terry Pratchett is no more and that was last year!
RIP
I’ll never get over Terry Pratchett leaving the party so early either. Another inimitable talent gone.
I haven’t open his last trilogy with Stephen Baxter. I’m “saving” for when I’m really down.
We’ll binge on Alan Rickman’s films this weekend starting with Snowcake.
I hope Colin Firth , Anthony Hopkins and Mark Strong won’t leave unexpectedly either.
Oh no, no more this year please, if Colin Firth goes I’m leaving the planet.
This world is completely screwed up – people like Prachett, Bowie and Rickman, who contributed greatly to society and made our lives better for so many decades, had to die way too early – and in suffering to make things worse, while Charles Manson is already in his freaking 80’s, happily living in a cosy prison cell and allowed to “date” 20-something year old morons. He’ll probably live to 100 and go peacefully in his sleep.
Yes, some don’t make it to a truly old age (or end up an invalid for years), yet some less likable people can trot right along to 90.
Not again. Another talented man gone too soon. RIP Mr. Rickman.
Nooooooooo! 😭😭
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!
Thank you for all the characters you gave life and entertained me.
Rest in peace, Mr. Rickman!
This is terribly sad! I have watched S&S every Valentine’s Day for 10 years. And Love Actually every Christmas. And a Harry Potter Marathon on my birthday week every year. I never even realized how much Alan Rickman’s work has been such a big part of my life’s celebrations. RIP
Oh, damn. Loved him. What an awful week. Love to his friends and family.
Wonderful, wonderful actor. RIP.
He was also a tremendous, and deeply respected, classical stage actor. He was Antony to Helen Mirren’s Cleopatra. I had the honor of seeing him in one of his last stage performances, a couple of years ago. He was one of the greats.
I am jealous of the honour you enjoyed, sweetling.
For you: Kath Viner of the Grauniad gets on my nerves, but she wrote a lovely piece -http://www.theguardian.com/film/filmblog/2016/jan/14/alan-rickman-the-most-loyal-playful-and-generous-of-friends
Oh, I love that. He seems like a rare character. Thanks for posting it.
I saw him once, at a theatre party for my old company in New York. It was so long ago, I can’t even remember why he was there, but it was one of those moments where we all kind of got starstruck, even my artistic director, because he was so distinctive, you couldn’t NOT notice it was Alan Rickman. I believe that people on the street probably did stop and stare all the time.
I believe it, too.
He was my late mother’s forever dong. It’s kinda making me doubly upset.
What a sh*t year so far. My favorite Rickman part was Blow Dry. I don’t know why, it’s such a quirky movie but the performances are so good and he is especially moving in it.
My favorite too. I loved him in that. I loved him in everything, but especially that.
I watched that movie for the first time in years this summer, with a friend who had never seen it before. It is a weird, weird movie, but I love it. It was already hard to watch with Natasha Richardson gone so young, but now it’ll just give me the sobs.
And Natasha’s gone too
Someone round up the cast of “Blackadder” and throw Jeremy Irons, Colin Firth, Helen Mirren, and Emma Thompson in there for good measure, put them in a bubble, and roll it into the V&A for safekeeping. I will absolutely not have any more of this lunacy this year! At this rate we’ll be stuck with BC and Redcarpet exclusively by 2017! And hands off Betty White, too, while we’re at it!
Godspeed, Alan, you were adored!!! xx
That’s not a bad idea but can we put Julie Walters in it as well please?
Absolutely. As many gems as we can stuff in it. We’ll get a second bubble for overflow.
And Judi Dench and Maggie Smith please.
My heart is aching today.
Yes, oh my goodness, yes! They can be in the “Dame Bubble.” I was just saying to someone in the office, “My first thought was that next week it will be Dame Judi!” and then I felt sick.
Secure Derek Jacobi, Ben Kingsley, Brian Blessed!
And if there’s room, add Michael Caine and Sean Connery to the guest list for the secured space at the V&A too.
Nooooooooo, oh my God no! Damn it! Now Alan? I f*cking hate cancer and 2016 oficially sucks. I’m so sad and I haven’t even recovered from Bowie 😭😭😭😭
Oh.. no… Colonel Brandon.. this voice!
So sad, I had NO idea he was sick. What a fuc** devastating week. 🙁
I am utterly shocked and sad..
f*cking GUTTED
He had so much talent and will be greatly missed.
He was my one true “movie star” crush.
This is so sad. I was just thinking of him this morning, as my son just finished reading the first Harry Potter book. I was excited that we would watch the movie and I’d see Alan Rickman’s performance again. His voice was deep, emotional, and like no other…
What the hell 2016? I feel like canceling all television, radio and internet just so I don’t have to hear anymore tragic news.
And f*cking cancer. Again.
*Takes deep breath and tries to calm down*
RIP Mr. Rickman. Yours was a life well lived and your absence will be deeply felt. Thank you for entertaining us all these years.
I predict that a lot of people will be joining me in watching and re-watching the “always” scene from Deathly Hallows, bawling their eyes out.
…but if God is looking for a new Metatron, I hear that Alan Rickman has some excellent references.
Yes! Gosh he gave us soooo many memorable characters. Sheriff of Nottingham, Snape, Metatron, Hans Gruber, Colonel Brandon, Harry from Love Actually, Alexander from Galaxy Quest. Sigh. I am comforted for the moment to know that our memories of him will never die because he’s immortalized in film and in our hearts.
Damn. No no no no!
I always relished his performances, he was gold among so much dross. May angels sing thee to thy rest, Mr R. Thanks for making life more beautiful.
Dammit. He was in so many of my favorite movies. Dogma being on the top of the list, he was also wonderful in Galaxy Quest….By Grabthar’s hammer. So sad today
I watched Galaxy Quest 3 times yesterday, just for his character alone. My heart is broken.
Rickman’s Galaxy Quest is one of my favorite movies. I can turn it on and it always makes me chuckle. And Rickman just killed me with the delivery of his one liners.
so sad. I’m off to find a pub.
It’s been A REALLY BAD month for the British Arts
— Lemmy, Bowie, Rickman. — Rest in peace guys.
Old Blighty will miss you & your vast talents.
I salute the three of you.
Thank you for the times you entertained, enthralled & held my hand. * * *
I just….😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
RIP Colonel Brandon. Another tremendously, talented nice guy – I will miss you, Alan Rickman.
What a loss- RIP Alan.
Wow, I just heard about an hour ago, still not fully processed this. I don’t even know him personally but I feel so bad, can’t imagine what his loved ones are going through right now.
I haven’t read all the comments yet, and I will later, but this depresses me. He has been my forever dong since 1988….This week can f*k off ….
Oh man … one of my top three favorite actors. This is devastating news. I’m going to watch Dogma now. Such a sad day.
Fuck cancer! I cannot handle this news. He really was one of the best actors around. Definitely teared up when I heard the news.
I’m not wishing death on anyone, but please can the next few be rude and talentless individuals. Too much loss of gracious and talented people who truly added light to this world.
I don’t wish death on anybody either buts its sad when the good ones die while the horrible ones( ie Kanye West, The Kardashian, the Jenners, the Chris Browns) still roam the earth.
I know its terrible for his family but I wonder how the Potter actors feel. They must be devastated too. I know Daniel Radcliffe greatly admired Rickamn alot. Very sad year for Brits .
Such a wonderful actor! RIP Alan Rickman – he could play anything (and did). He was not classically handsome, but he was far more interesting to look at than many men who are. And in Sense and Sensibility he was able to make the older less physically attractive character the one everybody falls in love with.
I’m glad he was with his family and friends at the end. I’m very glad he could keep his illness private. Poor Rima Horton – they had been together since 1977. She must be devastated.
First David Bowie and now Alan Rickman? NOOOOOO!!!!!
I am beyond devastated. Alan Rickman was a wonderful wonderful man. I had the pleasure and the privilege to know him and Rima personally through several charity and theater organizations. My heart is broken.
I believe you that he was a good man in person. Even though he played the most despised character in H.P. you still just knew he was a good man. He just had that “thing” about him. Lucky you to have met him and his wife, she must have been remarkable too.
She is brilliant and personable and funny…. the perfect counterpart to Alan. It will be weird to go to a Broadway Cares event and not see him or go to a benefit for Amnesty International and not raise a glass to him from across a room
Ah, paranormalgirl, I am so sad for your loss of a friend. He touched so many of us from afar, I can imagine what a great wealth his presence must have been to those who loved him personally.
I am only just a great fan, and I am wrenched by this – I hate cancer so much.
My 17 year old son is getting ready for school now, and I just told him I have some bad news, but to get dressed and drink his hot cocoa first, because I think he will be too distracted after hearing of Alan’s passing.
And then we have to tell the 8 year old.
I am going to have to hide the HP movies, GQ, Love Actually, the Die Hards, and that dang Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy, my kids are apesh-t over Alan Rickman. Those movies play in my house on an almost eternal repeat (along with Indiana Jones movies and Star Wars, duh). What can I say?
RIP, dear man. You are greatly missed.
PS. Thank you for your charity work. TO paranormalgirl, Alan Rickman, and all who perform charitable acts.
I had to break the news to my 8-year-old stepsister this morning, and I could almost hear her little heart breaking. I think this is doubly devastating because the role of Snape made him a part of the memories of so many children, and it’s never easy to explain death to a kid.
So sorry for your loss Paranormalgirl. As sad as we are, I can only imagine the depth of emotion being felt by those who knew him personally.
Words can not express how sad I was to see this post. One of my favorite actors. Kaiser, very eloquently worded is your post about his passing.
Rest in peace Alan. You will be missed.
So very sad. What a week!
All the good ones are being taken away leaving us with the Hiltons and Kardashians. I’m not comfortable in this new world.
Colonel Brandon… 🙁
🙁
Man, this is 2009 all over again and we’re still at the first month of the year. Elton, Iggy Pop … please don’t join the 69 club.
Goodbye, Alan Rickman. Say hi to Bowie and Lemmy for me. You were great in Sense and Sensibility and Die Hard and of course as Severus Snape.
Aw, this is sad. I just watched Love, Actually again this year. He always had such a presence on screen.
I watched both Love, Actually and all of the Harry Potter movies this Christmas break. Both are traditions in my house, and I’m glad it’s a year until next time because I don’t think I could handle it right now.
Oh no…I can’t believe it…
It is such terrible sad news and on top of the less of David Bowie. I yelled out “Nooo, it can’t be”, when I read it. I really don’t want it to be true 🙁
He was such a great actor and also seemed to be a wonderful and giving person. It’s unbelievable that he’ll never been on screen again 🙁
Dear Alan:
Thank you for your wonderful movies, thank you for being a decent bloke, we all love you Truly, Madly, Deeply.
RIP and deepest condolences to your family and friends.
Godspeed, Mr Rickman
Scheiß Krebs.
The man had the most silky smooth sensual voice in film and he was always superb in every role he took. He always came across as a true gentleman. RIP Mr Rickman. You will be missed.
I am so sad…. So sad. Incredible actor.
F%&k this week!!
I am tears right now.
Loved him as a villain, loved his voice. One of my faves.
Damn, I hate cancer.
A good moment to remember him sexy as F… video by Texas band “In Demand”:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4-gNN8WRHo
@ Ennie
I TOTALLY forgot about that video. I even bought Texas’ album because of said video. He was gorgeous as ever. Oh my.
I queued up In Demand on my ipod driving to work today, just so I could think about that video and what a sexy guy he has always been. I call him the Crush with Highest Seniority on my Top-10 list, a position he’s held since I was in my teens.
He was a much better dance teacher than MCGonagall, that’s for sure! 😉
I was sad to hear about David, but shed tears for Alan. So inspirational, unique, words can’t describe it. Peace to his wife, family and those lucky enough to be his friends and colleagues.
No, no, no. First Bowie now Alan? F*ck cancer, f*ck it.
I haven’t recovered from the loss of David Bowie. I am unable to cry at the moment, but this is crushing. Tragic. What’s wrong with this year? I hate it already. RIP, beautiful man.
My gosh this year won’t quit.
He was a great actor and a witty man, such a loss, my condolences to his family 😳
RIP. Have nothing else to say.
A lovely man. A great talent. An incredible voice stilled. I feel so sad that we won’t be seeing anything new from him, but am grateful for the work he left behind. Fair winds, Mr. Rickman.
Ugh, how very sad. RIP Alan
Terrible news what a talented man RIP
David Bowie might have been a supernatural type force never to be seen again but I’m sadder for the loss of Alan Rickman. A talent and a gentleman with intelligence and wit and grace. RIP…. Sad you are gone but happy we had you.
Thank you Natalie, David and Rick for sharing your talent with us.
You ARE truly, madly, deeply unforgettable stars that fell to earth.
I’m paddling down the River Of Denial today.
This is a great loss to the acting community.
The loss of Mr. Rickman so soon after Bowie is making it very hard to abide my New Year’s resolution to be positive and glass half-full.
Alan Rickman was one of my first “older man” crushes…he had the voice and everything that appealed to me. Snape will always be my favorite HP character. Not to mention his work in Robin Hood, Die Hard, Love Actually, Sense and Sensibility…the list goes on and on.
Ugh. #2016NOTHANKS
There are no words. My oldest dog, Tommy, was put down yesterday at the age of 16, after a long fight with cancer. So I was already a bit emotional when I woke up to this news.
I’ve seen so many of his films – I admired his versatility and his ability to capitalize on his voice. He will be truly missed, however immortalised in film. RIP Alan.
Sorry for your loss Cee!
I’m so sorry to hear of terrible week, @Cee.
I can’t believe it, RIP.
I’ll add more roles to the awesome list: The Metatron, Sir Alexander Dane, Judge Turpin, Marvin, and Mesmer.
Just believe this! First The Tall Man (Phantasm) then David Bowie and now Alan Rickman. I can’t open the news anymore!
And Lemmy from Motorhead. Another one from the big C.
What a Legend – RIP Alan. 2016 is just not a good year : (
What a depressing week, I have no words. It’s just too upsetting 🙁 RIP Alan.
It feels like he was far too young, strange he and Bowie were the same age. This one really got me. I adored him in Truly Madly Deeply, one of the first British indie films I saw. He was just impeccable in everything he ever did, a sad, great loss for the acting world. It bugs me all of the Snape/ Harry Potter stuff is overshadowing the rest of his work but I guess it’s to be expected. 🙁
I was madly in love with his Colonel Brandon. Sigh.
RIP, Alan Rickman.
So sad, I loved Colonel Brandon in S&S with all my heart! He was also the only movie star I have seen up close in person. It turns out he was with his wife at the time. I walked by him in the French Market in New Orleans back in 2012. They walked by me and he made eye contact. I think he saw recognition on my face because he pointedly looked the other way quickly…but I would never approach a celebrity in public who was just minding their business. It was so exciting though! Colonel Brandon!
NOOOO NO NO NO NO NO NO….*curls up into a corner*
I cried as soon as I heard the news and cried again with my daughter when she came home from school. We are both all cried out.
I got lucky. I met the man twice. Once in NYC after a performance of Private Lives and once in London after Antony and Cleopatra. Despite exhorting myself to be cool, just to be a Cool Arts-Loving American, I fan-girled horribly both times. It was appalling.
He signed everything I thrust at him, both times, put up with my inane questions and was unfailingly patient and kind. In NYC, he smiled and urged me to come on closer, as I was hanging back.
I now have a signed copy of The Winter Guest screenplay thanks to him.
He didn’t get smart and take me to task for being an a$$hole. He didn’t look exasperated or bored. He was charming and gracious and kind and I just miss the hell out of him.
Forgive me, but this one hurts more than Bowie.
My condolences to his widow, Rima Horton, the rest of his family, his friends and associates. I cannot imagine what they’re going through right now.
I’m glad only that his struggle is over.
My son texted me this morning and told me the news. I’m seriously heart broken. He was one of the best. Colonel Brandon will always be my favorite role of his even as much as I loved Harry Potter. His voice alone could make my knees weak. It’s a sad day.
No….Sheriff Nottingham (“I’ll cut his heart out with a spoon!”) and Harry. 🙁 2016 is starting to really suck.
Anyone else thinking these things come in 3s? This is sad.
He’s another talented actor among other pursuits that was able to live privately, not cause drama, and be a decent person to those who interacted with him.
He lived a full life, but taken from illness too soon. My thoughts go out to his family and friends.
UGH
Heartbroken.
This is so sad, he was a wonderful talent. Loved watching him onscreen.
He was one of my favourite actors and lifelong crush. So sad at hearing this. He’s a legend that will be missed.
Very sad news.
Would like to add one note though, his cancer diagnosis and treatment were not a “secret,” they were “private.” There is a difference.
OMG! This is so devastating! I read about it on facebook and thought it was a bad joke! What is going on right now?!?! First Bowie, now Alan, And its only the second week of 2016. Unbelievable! The man was such a great talent, and that voice! R.I.P to another great artist. I just cannot believe this.
He has always been my number one celebrity crush. His loss is such a terrible thing. The talent and the wit and the intelligence and humble charm… This just sucks.
First David and now Alan. Oh god. I just saw this. Two of the finest talents, two of my all time crushes. Unbelievable. My heart goes out to their families. Cheers to two very amazing souls.
One of the great talents. Loved with in everything, but as a Harry fan have been enjoying his work as Snape immensely. RIP Alan – this suxs 🙁
January Man.
Devastating. I’ve been so sad about it all morning. He perfectly embodied Snape. Loved him as Colonel Brandon. Even in Love actually!
He was one of my very favorite actors, and I feel his voice was one of the most distinctive in the industry. Very very sad today.
“Even after all this time?” “Always.”
Can we please stop headlining articles about cancer as “secret” cancer battles? Why does it has to be public? One can choose or not to make it public, right, but its nobody’s business and the fact that they choose not to talk about it don’t make it a secret: it’s just not easy to discuss any health issues. So for me it should be just “cancer battle”
I still can not wrap my head around this. I’ve been a fan of him eversince Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. My friend told me about his passing and I was like: “NOOOOOOOOO, why are you lying to me… Stop freaking lying to me!”
Such a sad, sad start of the new year…
Will always remember him as Colonel Brandon. He was as upstanding in life as he was in character. RIP, Mr. Rickman.
Another huge, “NOOOOOOOOoooo…!” from me. He seemed like a lovely human being, and he absolutely was a wonderful actor.
He truly brought Col. Brandon to life on the big screen. I always liked him; even more so though after that.. Col. Brandon & Marianne’s storyline was so parallel to what I was going thru at the time and I had just married my “Col. Brandon”. I couldn’t picture any other actor portraying the character. I know part of it was because the character’s personality was so much like my hubby’s, but I always felt Rickman was just as sweet. My heart broke a bit today… Rest in Peace Colonel Brandon…. Alan Rickman.
RIP :(((((
This news kills me. Just heard. I adored this actor. Such a huge talent lost to the world.
My condolences to his loved ones.
Noooo, this is horrible! He was one of my favourite actors! He made me like Snape! Ooooh, it really is horrible, I had just started getting over Robin Williams and now Alan Rickman is gone, too! Right after David Bowie!
This is so tragic and sad. Loved Alan in so many films. He was great as a baddie and as a tortured goodie. RIP, Alan. You’ll be missed
“By Grathbar’s hammer…you shall be avenged” Never tire of watching Galaxy Quest. RIP
Several people have mentioned this lovely tiny film. If you at all like Alan Rickman (and really, who doesn’t adore him?) you MUST see “Truly Madly Deeply”. It is a small film. My daughter has been in love with him since she first saw that movie. She texted me heartbroken this morning. When I called, she was crying. Too much death this week. All too much.
His voice was so unique, and he had such presence. He will be missed. I happened to watch Love Actually the other day, and I remember a funny scene in the movie where he’s buying that necklace. The clerk was taking so long fiddling with the package, Harry (Alan) said with the most hilariously impatient look on his face ” Oh for goodness sake, are you going to dip it in yogurt and cover it with chocolate buttons??!” So funny.
Bowie and Rickman in one week? That’s it. I’m done with 2016. Someone wake me up New Years Day, 2017. (Sidenote: that video of Alan Rickman inhaling helium is one of my favorite things ever.)
David Bowie and now Alan Rickman? NOOOOOOOOOO…
Wake-up call…gotta quit smoking, WOW. Anyone here done that — successfully? Suggestions?
RIP 🙁
My mom was a 3 pack/day smoker when she stopped. She used the patches but said the hardest part was not the nicotine withdrawal, but the day-to-day physical action of smoking. She made sure she had something to keep her hands occupied (shelled sunflower seeds to snack on, puzzles, etc.) so when she got the urge to smoke, she had something to distract herself with. Good luck to you!
Use e-cigarettes. I was an almost 2 pack a day smoker for 15 years. Switched to e cigarettes, gave me the hand to mouth satisfaction and got rid of the nicotine craving. Been smoke free for a year. Had a cigarette on New Year’s Eve and wanted to puke with how nasty they tasted and how bad it made my clothes and hair smell.
Also very upset about this news. He was a quite remarkable actor, and from all accounts an equally remarkable, and very lovely, person.
Wow. Very sad news. Wonderful man and so brilliantly talented. Condolences to his loved ones.
Awful news 🙁
I am devastated. Still can´t believe we won´t hear his voice again in something new. What a great loss. So unfair.
Terrible news and a real shock. He was an awesome thespian and the stars are a little dimmer for his passing.
This is so unfair. He stil hadn’t read the Harry Potter books.
I feel really and truly sad.
RIP.
May you lead an amazing after-life now, wherever you are.
Flowers being left at Platform 9 3/4 in tribute.
Evanna Lynch (Luna Lovegood) wrote a lovely essay about him on her facebook, evylynchpage
I agree with “moot” and “menega”. This news is just paralyzing. My thought at seeing the headline was “I did NOT just see what I think I did”, followed by the “Nooooo” everyone else feels. In the local area, we just lost a well known educator I had begun working with closely. She was 66, and had a way of thinking very similar to what is described for Mr. Rickman – able to see an entire structure, including the details, all through keen observation. Those people are hard to find. The scariest thing for me is here I am nearly done being a single mom so I can actually finally focus on a career at my age, but all these people around me, who are not much older, are dying. Between all the people dying this week (all the celebrities of cancer) , and the local incident just before Christmas, it’s just been weird.