Legendary actor Alan Rickman has died at the age of 69 after battling cancer.
The Guardian reports that Alan, star of so many excellent British films and plays, passed away in London after suffering from the disease.
His family has confirmed the news and tributes are already flooding in.
She was joined by Emma Watson, who said:
I'm very sad to hear about Alan today. I feel so lucky to have worked and spent time with such a special man and actor. I'll really miss our conversations. RIP Alan. We love you
Posted by [Emma Watson](https://www.facebook.com/emmawatson/) on [Thursday, January 14, 2016](https://www.facebook.com/emmawatson/posts/1184500511568837)
Alan's close friend and Love Actually co-star Emma Thompson also released an emotional statement paying tribute to the actor.
"Alan was my friend and so this is hard to write because I have just kissed him goodbye.
"What I remember most in this moment of painful leave-taking is his humour, intelligence, wisdom and kindness. His capacity to fell you with a look or lift you with a word."
Like David Bowie, who also died this week, Alan chose to keep his illness private.
He won praise and admiration for his acting, which even bagged him a Golden Globe for the 1996 film Rasputin.
Alan since found fame among the younger generation for his role as Professor Severus Snape in the Harry Potter franchise.
We'll have more on this sad news as it comes.