Alan Rickman has died at the age of 69 according to reports from The Guardian. The British actor, perhaps best known for playing Severus Snape in the Harry Potter series and owner of one of the most distinctive voices in cinema, suffered from cancer.

From The Guardian:

“His death was confirmed on Thursday by his family who said that he died “surrounded by family and friends”. Rickman had been suffering from cancer.”

A veteran of British theatre and member of the Royal Shakespeare Company, Rickman achieved widespread prominence through his feature film debut as the villainous Hans Gruber in the original Die Hard. 

Later his portrayal of the morally ambiguous Hogwarts potions master introduced him to a whole new generation of fans across eight films.

Many on social media have expressed their shock at the news, especially following the cancer-related death of David Bowie, also 69, on Monday.

Tributes have already begun to flow from the show business and fan community.

What desperately sad news about Alan Rickman. A man of such talent, wicked charm & stunning screen & stage presence. He’ll be sorely missed

— Stephen Fry (@stephenfry) January 14, 2016

I do not want my heroes to die! Alan Rickman is dead & he was another hero. Alan – thank you for being with us. We are sorry you had to go

— Eddie Izzard (@eddieizzard) January 14, 2016

RIP 1947 – 2016

via GIPHY

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Photograph:

Miro Vrlik Photography / Shutterstock.com