Tim Curry, Rocky Horror Picture Show Star, Dies at 80

Timothy James Curry, the renowned actor best known for his portrayal of the iconic character Dr. Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, passed away on Tuesday night at the age of 80, as reported by TMZ. Born on April 19, 1946 in Grappenhall, England to a school secretary and Royal Navy chaplain, Curry embarked on his acting career in stage plays and musicals, notably performing in Hair and After Haggerty.

His breakthrough role came in 1973 when he starred in the original London stage production of Rocky Horror at the Royal Court Theatre, later reprising the role in the 1975 film adaptation. Despite a lackluster initial release in the United States, the film found a devoted audience, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community who resonated with the character of the flamboyant, gender-bending mad scientist, a "sweet transvestite from Transsexual, Transylvania."

Curry's career thereafter was dominated by villainous roles, including Rooster Hannigan in 1982's Annie and the menacing Pennywise in the 1990 ABC miniseries based on Stephen King's novel. He also made memorable appearances in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York as a Plaza Hotel concierge and voiced notable characters such as Captain Hook in Peter Pan & the Pirates and Hexxus in Ferngully: The Last Rainforest.

In addition to acting, Curry pursued a musical career, releasing three albums throughout the 1970s. In 2012, he endured a severe stroke which left half of his body paralyzed. In a 2025 interview with the Guardian, Curry reflected on his decision to play the gender-nonconforming Dr. Frank-N-Furter, stating, "I did think it was risky and indeed it was.

But I like risky. I would choose risky over anything. That's the best way to be. I wasn't sure that I had the courage to do it, and I did and that was good. I resolved to apply it to my life."