Tim Curry: A Multifaceted Career Remembered

Actor Tim Curry, renowned for his iconic role as Dr. Frank-N-Furter in the cult classic film Rocky Horror Picture Show, has passed away, confirmed by his long-time manager and friend Marcia Hurwitz. Curry was 80 years old. The cause of his death has not yet been disclosed.

Curry’s unforgettable performance as Dr. Frank-N-Furter in 1975’s Rocky Horror Picture Show solidified his status as a favorite among fans of campy horror and mystery genres. His portrayal of Wadsworth in the film adaptation of the board game Clue, and the frightening clown Pennywise in the 1990 TV movie version of Stephen King’s It, also remain memorable among audiences.

“Tim Curry in The Rocky Horror Picture Show.” Collection Christophel / Alamy

Curry’s health had been compromised since a massive stroke in 2012 left him partially paralyzed and unable to walk.

Born on April 19, 1946, Curry built a remarkable career that spanned over five decades, boasting hundreds of credits in film, television, and theater. He began his acting journey on the stage with the London company of the musical Hair, ultimately moving to Los Angeles to focus on his on-screen work.

“Tim Curry in Clue in 1985.” Paramount / Courtesy Everett Collection

Among younger fans, Curry is also recognized for his role as Rooster Hannigan in the 1982 movie musical Annie, where he acted alongside comedy icon Carol Burnett and Broadway star Bernadette Peters. He portrayed Mr. Hector, the famed Plaza Hotel concierge in the 1992 sequel to Home Alone, and played the pirate Long John Silver in 1996’s Muppet Treasure Island.

In 1991, Curry received a Daytime Emmy for his voice work as Captain Hook on the Fox animated series Peter Pan and the Pirates. Throughout his career, he was honored with three Tony nominations. His first nomination came in 1980 for originating the title role in Peter Shaffer’s Amadeus, and his last nomination was in 2005 for his role as King Arthur in Spamalot. Another nomination came in 1993 for portraying Alan Swann in My Favorite Year.

“Tim Curry as the narrator in 2016 in The Rocky Horror Picture Show: Let’s Do The Timewarp Again.” FOX Image Collection via Getty Images file

Last year, Curry published his memoir Vagabond, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Rocky Horror Picture Show. He reflected in the memoir that while elements of him were present in his characters, he was never fully represented by them. “The distinctions between who I really am and who I’ve pretended to be as an actor have proven to be a source of great disappointment to some audiences. It has not caused me much personal distress beyond the periodic necessity to deter stalkers,” he wrote.

In one of his recent public appearances, Curry, in a wheelchair, discussed with Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz for CBS Sunday Morning the liberation acting provided him by allowing him to become someone else.

This is an ongoing story. Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.