On April 30th, 2023, Google celebrated the 36th anniversary of one of Alan Rickman’s most iconic roles with a special Google Doodle. Rickman, who passed away in 2016 at the age of 69, was a beloved British actor known for his incredible range and talent on both stage and screen.
The Google Doodle features a portrait of Rickman in character as Hans Gruber, the villainous mastermind behind the Nakatomi Plaza heist in the 1988 action film “Die Hard.” The Doodle is accompanied by the film’s iconic catchphrase, “Yippee ki-yay, motherf****r,” which Rickman delivers with impeccable timing and panache in one of the movie’s most memorable scenes.
“Die Hard” was a breakout role for Rickman, who had previously made a name for himself on the stage but was relatively unknown in Hollywood. He was originally cast as Gruber after the film’s director, John McTiernan, saw him perform in a stage production of “Les Liaisons Dangereuses” in London. Rickman brought a sophistication and wit to the role that elevated the character beyond a one-dimensional villain, and he quickly became a fan favorite.
But Rickman was much more than just a skilled actor who could play a convincing villain. Throughout his career, he demonstrated a remarkable ability to inhabit a wide variety of roles, from the sneering Professor Snape in the “Harry Potter” films to the romantic hero Colonel Brandon in “Sense and Sensibility.” He was equally at home in dramas, comedies, and thrillers, and his performances always left a lasting impression on audiences.
In addition to his acting work, Rickman was also a director, a writer, and a philanthropist. He was a patron of several charitable organizations, including the International Performers’ Aid Trust and Saving Faces, a charity that supports facial surgery research.
The Google Doodle is a fitting tribute to Alan Rickman and his enduring legacy as one of the greatest actors of his generation. It’s a reminder of the joy and excitement that he brought to audiences with his performances, and it’s a celebration of his talent, his wit, and his dedication to his craft. As we reflect on his life and his work, we can’t help but feel grateful for the time we had with him and the memories he left behind.
