Stars pay tribute to British film and theatre icon Alan Rickman

Actors, comedians and politicians have taken to Twitter to express their sadness at the death of Alan Rickman, who has died aged 69 after suffering with cancer.

JK Rowling paid tribute to the “magnificent” Rickman, who played Professor Snape in the Harry Potter films.

There are no words to express how shocked and devastated I am to hear of Alan Rickman's death. He was a magnificent actor & a wonderful man.

— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) January 14, 2016

Matthew Lewis, who played Neville Longbottom in Harry Potter alongside Rickman, said that he had “inspired my career more than he will ever know.”

I was at Leavesden Studios today when I heard the news. As I walked through the canteen I… https://t.co/tvOqG8EfjE

— Matthew Lewis (@Mattdavelewis) January 14, 2016

Stephen Fry wrote a heartfelt message about how Rickman would be missed.

Former Labour leader Ed Miliband paid tribute to the actor.

Really sad to hear about Alan Rickman. Brilliant actor, deeply principled man. My heart goes out to Rima and his family.

— Ed Miliband (@Ed_Miliband) January 14, 2016

As did the current Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn.

Ian McKellen shared a long farewell to his friend, along with a snap from the 1997 Golden Globes.

Warwick Davis, who played Filius Flitwick in Harry Potter alongside Rickman, said he was glad to have worked with him.

So terribly sad to hear of the passing of Alan Rickman. Honoured to have shared the screen with him. #Marvin #Snape He'll be sorely missed.

— Warwick Davis (@WarwickADavis) January 14, 2016

American actors, including Cruel Intentions’ Selma Blair and Will and Grace’s Debra Messing expressed their sadness at Rickman’s death.