Alan Rickman’s booming presence in film spans wider than the Harry Potter franchise, but his portrayal of Severus Snape introduced him to millions of children who grew up knowing the character.

With the third anniversary of his death being on January 14, fans and admirers are celebrating and reflecting on his illustrious career that includes over thirty years of work. Since his passing, it’s been revealed through letters that early on in the Harry Potter series, Rickman was at times frustrated with his role.

He eventually grew to love the complex character he played for eight movies. What some may not know is that when the series came to a close, he penned a farewell letter that was published in Empire magazine in 2011:

“I have just returned from the dubbing studio where I spoke into a microphone as Severus Snape for absolutely the last time. On the screen were some flashback shots of Daniel, Emma, and Rupert from ten years ago.

They were 12. I have also recently returned from New York, and while I was there, I saw Daniel singing and dancing (brilliantly) on Broadway. A lifetime seems to have passed in minutes.

Three children have become adults since a phone call with Jo Rowling, containing one small clue, persuaded me that there was more to Snape than an unchanging costume, and that even though only three of the books were out at that time, she held the entire massive but delicate narrative in the surest of hands.

“It is an ancient need to be told in stories. But the story needs a great storyteller. Thanks for all of it, Jo.”

Like most of us, Rickman watched these children – and the franchise – grow up over a decade. It was truly amazing to see how time passed while being a part of that world. For Rickman, it sounds like it left an indescribable impression on his life, and perhaps his legacy too.

Were you a fan of Professor Snape and Rickman’s portrayal? Your feelings on this letter? Who was your fave Harry Potter character?