Alan Rickman’s Widow Wants to Flip the Script on Pancreatic Cancer

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It’s been a decade since we lost Alan Rickman, a truly iconic actor, and it’s incredibly moving to see his widow, Rima Horton, dedicating herself to raising money for Pancreatic Cancer UK. It’s a disease that’s shockingly dangerous – one of the deadliest forms of cancer, actually – claiming nearly 10,000 lives in the UK annually, and they’re projecting around 52,000 in the US next year. Sadly, those who struggle with obesity, smoke, have diabetes, or are over 55 are at the highest risk. The statistics are grim; only about 25% of patients live beyond a year. It’s particularly heartbreaking knowing Rickman himself passed away just six months after receiving his diagnosis. It really highlights the urgent need for research and support.

Horton, who was married to the actor for four years but had been with him since the 1970s, spoke on BBC Breakfast yesterday about her late husband and promoted a charity working to change perceptions.

He had so much potential and could have achieved so much more. Unfortunately, pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed too late because the early signs are hard to spot. We’re working to fund a breath test that could detect the disease much earlier, giving people a better chance.

As a huge movie fan – and a Harry Potter one, naturally – I was really excited to see this amazing charity initiative. They announced on Instagram that anyone who donated just £5 would be entered to win all seven of the hardback Harry Potter books, and get this – they’re signed by twelve different actors from the films! It’s a fantastic way to honor Alan Rickman, ten years after his passing from pancreatic cancer. They’re raising money for research in his memory, and honestly, what a beautiful tribute to such a legendary Professor Snape. It’s a chance to win something incredible while supporting a really important cause.

The signed items feature autographs from several of the actors who played iconic characters in the Harry Potter films, including Ralph Fiennes (Lord Voldemort), Emma Thompson (Professor Trelawney), Helena Bonham Carter (Bellatrix Lestrange), Rupert Grint (Ron Weasley), and Matthew Lewis (Neville Longbottom).

‘Harry Potter’ Star Was a Charitable Guy Himself


Warner Bros.

Recently, Tom Felton, who worked with Alan Rickman in the Harry Potter films, shared a heartwarming story with The Guardian. Felton revealed that Rickman quietly invited children with terminal illnesses and their families to visit the set, giving them a memorable and special day.

He frequently had visitors at his studio – usually around six people each day – and would introduce them as relatives or friends. In reality, he was giving seriously ill children and their families a special, private look at his work.

Tom Felton, the actor who played Draco Malfoy, took his role seriously, even when meeting fans. He apparently stayed in character as Severus Snape, playfully teasing visitors by sneering at them and even jokingly pretending to tap them on the ear, much to the amusement (and perhaps slight shock) of their parents. He really committed to the part!

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2026-01-28 19:18