We all have our favourite actors and actresses from the Harry Potter movies, but I believe most Potterheads can agree that Alan Rickman has fulfilled his duties as Severus Snape with perfection. Whether it be his appearance, his voice, or his demeanour, he has left an everlasting impression on us.
In this article we will dive into some behind the scenes content of this beloved actor, explore his relations with the rest of the cast, and dig up some nice facts about him!
Alan Rickman was one of the first people to join the cast of Harry Potter. He fit the role perfectly and showed the same dedication and commitment that had gotten him his roles in Die Hard, Love Actually, Alice in Wonderland: Behind the Looking Glass, Sweeney Todd, or Sense and Sensibility. During his career, whether it be in film or theatre, he was highly appreciated and received respect and appreciation from anyone he worked with. His kindness and talent, along with the perfect portrayal of Severus Snape, not only granted him the role, but created his legacy.
Alan Rickman was a generous and kind man, paying his friends’ restaurant bills, or showing his affection with small details. He would gift Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter) a copy of The Catcher in the Rye, would always be surrounded children on the set when they had visitors, and would keep the caricature Rupert Grint (Ron Weasley) made of him.
He gave advice to his colleagues, young and old, and would help guide them through difficult situations in their career. He was an inspiration to them, as they would share in interviews, was seen as a hero.
But his love and care did not stop with his friends and colleagues. During Prisoner of Azkaban the production invited terminally ill children to the set, Rickman spoke to Jay and found out that the boy dreamed of being in the film - a dream that would come true due to Rickman, who asked producers to let the children play extras.
Rickman was so much more than an actor, he was a great method actor, a fun colleague, and a kind and generous man. He was part of something so much bigger than Harry Potter, and the messages he spread not by his words, but by his actions, will forever be cherished.
"A film, a piece of theatre, a piece of music, or a book can make a difference. It can change the world."
- Alan Rickman
Share your favourite Alan Rickman quote in the comments!