Tim Curry, the celebrated actor whose captivating performances spanned stage and screen, died Tuesday, Aug. 25, at the age of 80. His representative, Sean Katz, confirmed the actor's peaceful passing to USA Today.
Curry's career, which began on the stage, gained widespread recognition through his unforgettable portrayals of Dr. Frank-N-Furter in "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" and Pennywise the Dancing Clown in Stephen King's "IT." His career was marked by a profound ability to embody eccentric and colorful characters, but those who knew him remembered his "curious, expansive mind and generous, gentle heart," according to a statement from his representative.
In 2012, Curry experienced a significant stroke that resulted in partial paralysis. Despite these challenges, he remained engaged with his work and fans. Last year, he attended a 50th-anniversary screening of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" in Los Angeles, where he shared an update on his health, noting the limitations of not being able to walk and the impact on his ability to sing and dance.
Curry's feature film debut was in "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," reprising his role as Dr. Frank-N-Furter, a character he first originated on London's West End in 1973 and later on Broadway in 1975. The cult classic, a homage to science fiction and horror B-movies, follows a couple seeking refuge in a castle inhabited by the alien transvestite scientist and his creations.
Another notable role was Rooster Hannigan in the 1982 film adaptation of "Annie." Curry also starred as Wadsworth the butler in the 1985 cult film "Clue," based on the popular board game.
Curry's chilling performance as Pennywise the Dancing Clown in the 1990 television adaptation of Stephen King's "IT" became one of his most recognized roles. The story follows a group of childhood friends who battle an ancient, shape-shifting evil that preys on the fears of its victims.
His extensive filmography also includes the role of the concierge in "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York" (1992) and Long John Silver in "Muppet Treasure Island" (1996).
In addition to his live-action work, Curry was a prolific voice actor. He lent his voice to Nigel Thornberry, the enthusiastic patriarch of "The Wild Thornberrys," for 91 episodes and two feature films.
One of Curry's final on-screen appearances was in a 2025 documentary, "Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror," which examines the musical's evolution and lasting legacy.
