Legendary actor Tim Curry, celebrated for his iconic roles in "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York," and "IT," has died at the age of 80. His death was reported on August 26, 2026, with sources indicating he passed away at his home in Los Angeles. No foul play is suspected, as Curry had been managing serious health issues for over a decade.
Curry, born in Cheshire, England, gained international fame for his portrayal of Dr. Frank-N-Furter in the 1975 film adaptation of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show." He had previously starred in the role in the original 1973 London production and later on Broadway. Despite the film's cult status, Curry initially hesitated to discuss it, fearing typecasting. He recounted the initial Broadway reviews as "appalling" and "cruel," though critics later likened his performance to a blend of major stars.
Notable Roles and Career Highlights
Beyond his defining role in "Rocky Horror," Curry was also known for his performance as the concierge Mr. Hector in the 1990 hit "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York." He also portrayed Pennywise the Dancing Clown in the 1990 miniseries adaptation of Stephen King's "IT." His extensive career spanned film, television, and stage, earning him critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
In 2015, Curry received the Actors Fund Lifetime Achievement Award at the Tony Awards Viewing Party in Los Angeles. In recent years, Curry had largely remained out of the public eye following a stroke he suffered in 2012 at the age of 66. The stroke left him partially paralyzed on one side of his body and affected his speech. He spoke about his condition in the past year, noting that he could no longer walk unaided and had significant challenges with his left leg, which limited his ability to sing and dance.
Curry's legacy is cemented by his ability to inhabit a wide range of characters, from the flamboyant mad scientist to menacing villains, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture.