Gary Oldman has shared a touching memory of his late Harry Potter co-star Alan Rickman, recalling how the actor would bring children onto the film sets so they could experience the magic of the franchise.

Oldman, who played Sirius Black in the films, remembered Rickman as someone who understood how much Harry Potter meant to young fans. Rickman, who portrayed Professor Severus Snape throughout all eight films, would reportedly welcome children from schools, hospitals and the families of friends onto the sets.

Oldman described Rickman’s efforts as “the most extraordinary thing”, remembering how he would show the children around and introduce them to members of the cast.

Rickman played Snape from Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone in 2001 through to Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 in 2011. His character became one of the franchise’s most complicated figures, with the final film revealing the truth behind his actions and his enduring love for Lily Potter.

Rickman died in January 2016 at the age of 69 after pancreatic cancer.

Oldman’s recollection offers a glimpse of Rickman away from his intimidating portrayal of Snape and highlights the actor’s understanding of the franchise’s importance to its youngest fans.

The story comes as the Harry Potter franchise enters a new era, with HBO preparing a television adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s books. Paapa Essiedu will take over the role of Snape for the new series, which is scheduled to premiere on December 25, 2026.