Before his passing in 2016, Alan Rickman made his mark on the film industry. His acting career started later in life but he still became a big star, playing many timeless characters who will always be remembered. He starred in plenty of roles, but he is best known for being able to play the villain perfectly with his chilling stare and baritone voice. However, off the set, he was very different from the malicious characters that he played. Keep reading to learn more about the admired actor who has touched the hearts of fans all over the world.
He Knew How Harry Potter Ends Before Anybody Else
If you’ve read or seen Harry Potter, you know the importance and depth of Severus Snape’s character in the story. Author J.K. Rowling revealed to Alan Rickman the true character of Severus Snape so that the actor could play the role correctly, and she told him where the story was going even before she had written it down, not later in the series. Rickman used his knowledge to guide the directors and told them, “I know something you don’t.” Amazingly, the actor managed not to reveal the secrets for all those years, which makes Snape among the most dynamic characters.

He Knew How Harry Potter Ends Before Anybody Else
He Almost Declined To Play Hans Gruber
Alan Rickman nearly turned down the role of the villain Hans Gruber in Die Hard, the 1988 action film. Being in action films was just something he wasn’t interested in as he had already done British mini-series, such as The Barchester Chronicles (1982) and Summer Season (1985). However, he ended up accepting the part after he read the script and found it rather clever. It’s a good thing that he did as the role became one of the most iconic in his career. In addition, he wasn’t afraid to make suggestions either, and he convinced the producers that it is better for Gruber to wear a suit instead of tactical gear.

He Almost Declined To Play Hans Gruber