This is heartbreaking.

Alan Rickman — perhaps best known for his role of Severus Snape in the Harry Potter franchise, among countless other films — has passed away after battling cancer.

He was 69-years-old.

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harry potter cast (photo credit: getty images)

His family confirmed his death with a statement to the BBC, saying, “The actor and director Alan Rickman has died from cancer at the age of 69. He was surrounded by family and friends.”

The Golden Globe winner is survived by his wife, Rima Horton, whom he wed in 2012.

Our thoughts remain with Alan’s loved ones in the wake of this tragedy.

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