10 Magical Alan Rickman Facts In Memoriam

Before becoming a household name as an actor, Alan Rickman was a talented graphic designer. He studied at the Royal College of Art in London and worked as a designer, including creating album covers for bands like the English rock group, 'The Yardbirds.' His design work was an early manifestation of his artistic flair, long before he graced the stage and screen.

Rickman didn’t begin his acting career until his early 30s. Although he had a successful stint in theater before making his film debut, his big break came with the role of "Hans Gruber" in 'Die Hard' (1988) when he was 41. His late start in acting allowed him to bring a wealth of life experience and maturity to his roles, which contributed to his unique screen presence.

Though primarily known for his acting, Alan Rickman had a surprising musical talent. He played the bass guitar and was part of a band during his youth. Rickman’s love for music continued throughout his life, and he often expressed a desire to explore musical theater roles.

Rickman’s deep connection with the theater was solidified by his time with the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC). He joined the RSC in 1985, where he took on a variety of roles, including "The Ghost" in 'Hamlet' and "Iago" in 'Othello.' His work with the RSC was instrumental in shaping his acting career and honing his craft.

In addition to his acting, Rickman had a keen interest in directing. He directed the film 'The Winter Guest' (1997), a poignant drama set in Scotland. Rickman’s direction was well-received and showcased his ability to understand and bring out the best in his actors, much like he did with his own performances.

Rickman was a staunch advocate for the arts and education. He supported various charities and was particularly involved with organizations that promoted drama and the performing arts. His commitment to fostering new talent and supporting artistic endeavors reflected his deep love for the craft.

In 2003, Alan Rickman was invited to a private reception at Buckingham Palace, where he had the rare opportunity to meet Queen Elizabeth II. During this encounter, he reportedly found himself in a humorous situation where he had to explain to the Queen that he was not a member of the royal family, despite the regal nature of his film roles.

Rickman’s portrayal of "Severus Snape" in the 'Harry Potter' series was deeply influenced by his knowledge of the character’s ultimate fate, a secret that was known only to J.K. Rowling and Rickman during the filming. This unique insight allowed him to infuse his performance with a depth and nuance that captivated fans and critics alik

Despite his commanding presence on screen, Rickman was known for his shy and reserved nature in real life. He often avoided the limelight and preferred to keep his personal life private. His reserved demeanor was a stark contrast to the larger-than-life characters he portrayed.

Alan Rickman was not only a respected actor but also a mentor to many of his colleagues. He was known for his generosity and guidance, particularly to younger actors. His support and encouragement helped shape the careers of many who had the privilege of working with him.