Tim Curry, the distinctive British performer recognized for his portrayal of eccentric characters like the flamboyant 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 his death at his Los Angeles residence on Tuesday evening, correcting earlier reports that stated he passed away on Wednesday. The cause of his death has not been disclosed yet. Curry, who suffered a stroke in 2012 and had been using a wheelchair since then, rose to fame in the 1970s as the lead in the horror-comedy stage musical “The Rocky Horror Show,” later reprising his role in the 1975 film adaptation.
Known for his portrayal of wicked and eccentric villains, Curry also notably played Pennywise the clown in the 1990 miniseries adaptation of Stephen King’s “It” and Rooster Hannigan in the 1982 film “Annie.” Beyond his on-screen persona, Curry’s voice resonated in animated children’s productions such as “The Rugrats Movie,” “The Pebble and the Penguin,” “Rugrats in Paris,” and “The Wild Thornberrys Movie.”
His versatile talent earned him three Tony nominations for stage performances in “Spamalot,” “My Favourite Year,” and “Amadeus,” as well as an Emmy nomination for his appearance on “Tales from the Crypt” in 1994. Described as a genre-defying artist, Curry’s publicist highlighted his ability to seamlessly transition between various genres throughout his career, delighting audiences with his diverse character portrayals.
Tributes have poured in from colleagues and admirers following the news of his passing. Carol Burnett, his co-star in “Annie,” remembered Curry as a dear friend and a masterful performer. Actor and comedian Rob Schneider expressed his sorrow over losing his “Home Alone 2” co-star, praising Curry’s exceptional talent and impactful presence. The official Instagram page for “The Rocky Horror Show” also paid homage to Curry, acknowledging his iconic portrayal of Dr. Frank-N-Furter and his significant contribution to the entertainment industry. Tim Curry’s legacy as a versatile and beloved actor continues to be celebrated by fans and peers alike.