Alan Rickman, a celebrated British actor and director, is best known for his captivating performances in film, theatre, and television. Born on February 21, 1946, in London, Rickman trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. His breakthrough role as Hans Gruber in "Die Hard" established him as a versatile villain, further solidified by his portrayal of Severus Snape in the "Harry Potter" series. Beyond villainy, Rickman showcased his range in films like "Sense and Sensibility" and "Love Actually." Rickman also thrived on stage, winning acclaim for roles in productions like "Les Liaisons Dangereuses." He passed away in 2016, leaving a lasting legacy.