Alan Sidney Patrick Rickman was born in Acton, London, England, to Bernard Rickman, a factory worker, and Margaret Rickman.

Alan Rickman's father died when he was eight years old, leaving him and his siblings to be raised by their mother on a council estate.

Rickman studied graphic design at the Chelsea College of Art and Design and then attended the Royal College of Art in London.

Rickman attended RADA, where he honed his acting skills and won several distinguished prizes for his performances.