Alan Rickman: Brother confirms British actor passed away in hospital on Thursday

Alan Rickman’s brother has confirmed the beloved British actor passed away in hospital on Thursday morning, after suffering from cancer.

The beloved Harry Potter star passed away surrounded by his family in London. He was 69-years-old. Rickman's older brother David told The Mirror: “He passed away this morning. He was in a hospital at the time.” He declined to comment any further.

Rickman’s family confirmed his death in a statement: ”The actor and director Alan Rickman has died from cancer at the age of 69. He was surrounded by family and friends.”

A giant both on stage and on screen, Rickman established himself as the ultimate film villain with his breakthrough role in Die Hard and as the cruel Sheriff in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.

His talent, wit and humour made him a much-loved actor and sparked an outpouring of tributes from his friends, including Emma Thompson. The actress wrote a moving eulogy to her "ultimate all in life, arts and politics" moments after kissing her friend goodbye.

Rickman is survived by his wife Rima, who he secretly married in 2012 after 50 years together.