It was confirmed today that actor Alan Rickman, known for playing Severus Snape in the 'Harry Potter' films, has died at the age of 69 after a battle with cancer. 

The sad news immediately began trending on social media site Twitter and many people from the entertainment industry have been paying their respects online to the screen star. 

Jamie Campbell Bower, who is now in a band called Counterfeit, tweeted: "Devastated to hear about the passing of Alan Rickman. I had the pleasure of working with him on my first movie. A true legend and gentleman."

McFly's Tom Fletcher wrote: "So sad to hear that we’ve lost Alan Rickman. What a brilliantly talented man. Countless amazing performances. What a sad week." Boy George added: "Goodbye Alan Rickman. You were genius in Harry Potter."

Musician Newton Faulkner told his followers that he was a big fan of the actor: "Another legend and massively talented human being has died. Rest in peace Alan Rickman." Former Westlife singer Brain McFadden tweeted: "Gutted about alan rickman!!! What a wonderful actor!!"

'Harry Potter' author J.K. Rowling also posted a message about Rickman's passing, which reads: "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. My thoughts are with Rima and the rest of Alan's family. We have all lost a great talent. They have lost part of their hearts."

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Watch some of Alan Rickman's most memorable moments here: