Tim Curry, the distinctive British actor famous for portraying unique characters like the flamboyant, eccentric Dr. Frank-N-Furter in “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” has passed away at the age of 80.
His close friend and manager, Marcia Hurwitz, confirmed that Curry died at his residence in Los Angeles on Tuesday night, initially mentioning Wednesday. The cause of his death has not been revealed. Curry had suffered a stroke in 2012 and had been using a wheelchair since then.
Rising to fame in the 1970s with his leading role in the horror-comedy stage musical “The Rocky Horror Show,” Curry reprised his iconic character for the 1975 film adaptation “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.”
Known for his portrayal of wicked, eccentric villains, Curry took on roles such as the menacing clown Pennywise in the 1990 TV adaptation of Stephen King’s “It” and Rooster Hannigan in the 1982 movie “Annie,” alongside Carol Burnett as Miss Hannigan.
In addition to his comedic charm and expressive face, Curry was adored for his voice work in various animated children’s productions, including “The Rugrats Movie” (1998), “The Pebble and the Penguin” (1995), “Rugrats in Paris” (2000), and “The Wild Thornberrys Movie” (2002).
Earning three Tony nominations for his stage performances in “Spamalot,” “My Favourite Year,” and “Amadeus,” and an Emmy nomination in 1994 for his role in the horror series “Tales from the Crypt,” Curry showcased his versatility across genres.
Sean Katz, Curry’s PR manager, highlighted the actor’s ability to seamlessly transition between genres, stating that Curry’s enduring legacies are his inquisitive mind and compassionate heart that remained open until his last moments.
Throughout his extensive career spanning five decades, Curry effortlessly navigated between genres, taking on dramatic roles in films like “The Three Musketeers” (1993) and “The Hunt for Red October” (1990) in addition to his comedic performances.
Tributes flooded in following Curry’s passing, with colleagues like Carol Burnett and admirers acknowledging his unparalleled talent and iconic contributions to the entertainment industry. Rob Schneider, Curry’s co-star in “Home Alone 2,” praised his exceptional talent and unique presence on screen.
Remembered as a true original and a trailblazer for his unforgettable portrayal of Dr. Frank-N-Furter, Tim Curry’s legacy as a versatile and beloved actor will continue to resonate in the hearts of fans worldwide.
