Harry Potter actor Alan Rickman dies at 69

Alan Rickman, best known for his roles in the Harry Potter films and Die Hard, has died aged 69.

The much-loved British actor first shot to stardom in 1988 when he played Hans Gruber, Bruce Willis's adversary, in Die Hard.

He gained legions of fans for his role as Professor Severus Snape in the Harry Potter films.

A family statement said: "The actor and director Alan Rickman has died from cancer at the age of 69. He was surrounded by family and friends."