Tim Curry, Star of 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show,' Dies at 80 (2026-08-26)

Tim Curry, the actor who became a cultural icon with his flamboyant performance in 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show,' has died. He was 80 years old.

Curry passed away on Tuesday at his home in Toluca Lake, Los Angeles. His longtime manager, Marcia Hurwitz, confirmed the news, stating he died peacefully. While no immediate cause was given, Curry had faced health challenges since suffering a severe stroke in 2012.

Born in Grappenhall, Cheshire, in 1948, Curry began his stage career in 1968 with the London production of 'Hair.' He built a reputation in classical theatre before 'The Rocky Horror Show' catapulted him to stardom in the 1970s. He reprised his role as Dr. Frank-N-Furter in the 1975 film adaptation, which became a cult phenomenon.

Beyond 'Rocky Horror,' Curry's filmography was diverse. He played the con man Rooster in 'Annie' (1982), the villain Darkness in Ridley Scott's 'Legend' (1985), and the butler Wadsworth in the cult classic 'Clue.' His other film credits include 'The Hunt for Red October,' 'Home Alone 2,' 'Muppet Treasure Island,' and 'Scary Movie 2.'

On television, Curry was memorable as the evil clown Pennywise in the miniseries 'IT' and as Bill Sikes in a 1982 adaptation of 'Oliver Twist.' He also lent his voice to 'Peter Pan and the Pirates.'

A versatile performer, Curry was also a singer, releasing rock albums in the late 1970s and early 1980s. His work earned him a Daytime Emmy, as well as Tony and Olivier Award nominations.