Alan Rickman dead: Celebrities pay tribute online

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Published on January 14, 2016 12:00PM EST

Actor Alan Rickman, best known for his roles in Die Hard, Galaxy Quest, Sweeney Todd, and, of course, the Harry Potter films (along with many, many more projects) has died at the age of 69. From the devious Hans Gruber to the sneering Severus Snape, from the lovesick Colonel Brandon to the ludicrous Alexander Dane, Rickman embodied villains, romantics, and heroes throughout his career. When news of his death broke, his co-stars, and other celebrities in the industry took to social media in droves to post tributes, while others shared statements remembering the late actor.

Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe posted a tribute on his Google Plus page, below:

Alan Rickman is undoubtedly one of the greatest actors I will ever work with. He is also, one of the loyalest and most supportive people I’ve ever met in the film industry. He was so encouraging of me both on set and in the years post-Potter. I’m pretty sure he came and saw everything I ever did on stage both in London and New York. He didn’t have to do that. I know other people who’ve been friends with him for much much longer than I have and they all say “if you call Alan, it doesn’t matter where in the world he is or how busy he is with what he’s doing, he’ll get back to you within a day”.

People create perceptions of actors based on the parts they played so it might surprise some people to learn that contrary to some of the sterner(or downright scary) characters he played, Alan was extremely kind, generous, self-deprecating and funny. And certain things obviously became even funnier when delivered in his unmistakable double-bass.

As an actor he was one of the first of the adults on Potter to treat me like a peer rather than a child. Working with him at such a formative age was incredibly important and I will carry the lessons he taught me for the rest of my life and career. Film sets and theatre stages are all far poorer for the loss of this great actor and man.

Kate Winslet: “We are all so devastated to lose Alan. He was loved enormously by so many. He was an exceptionally warm and giving man and an utterly phenomenal actor and gifted director. I remember being so intimidated by him when we worked together when I was 19 , because he had such a powerful and commanding presence . And that voice! Oh, that voice….. But the reality of course, was that he was the kindest and best of men. Had the patience of a saint. He was a warm hearted puppy dog, who would do anything for anyone if it made them happy. He was a loving and devoted partner to Rima, and like so many of us in our vast industry, my life was enriched by knowing him. My heart goes out to his family and those he loved.”

Sigourney Weaver: “Alan’s enormous strength of character infused every character he played. Who else could have brought such pain and wit to Snape. He used his talent always to make a difference, his production of Rachel Corrie being one of the most powerful examples. I can’t believe he’s gone.”

Helen Mirren: “Alan was a towering person, phsically, mentally and as an artist. He was utterly distinctive, with a voice that could suggest honey or a hidden stiletto blade, and the profile of a Roman Emperor. He was also a great friend, generous and social. He will be very missed by many.”

Mark Rylance: “I knew him more professionally than socially. He was particularly active and helpful for young actors at the school I went to, RADA [Royal Academy of Dramatic Art]. I always saw him there, and he went to almost every production and helped young actors, which is a very honorable and good thing to do. He was a good man, and this is sad news. He was really devoted in the most wonderful way to the training of young actors. That’s my memory of Alan.”

David Heyman: “Alan was one of the finest actors of our time. He was one of the most generous and caring people I have ever had the privilege to know. Today is a very sad day.”

Jennifer Lawrence: “It’s horrible news, it’s so sad,” she told EW. “He was a great actor. I wish I could have worked with him.”