Beloved British actor Tim Curry, renowned for his distinctive portrayals of eccentric characters such as the flamboyant Dr. Frank-N-Furter in “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” has passed away at the age of 80. Curry, who had been using a wheelchair since suffering a stroke in 2012, died at his Los Angeles residence on Tuesday night, as confirmed by his long-time manager Marcia Hurwitz.
Rising to fame in the 1970s with his role in the horror-comedy musical “The Rocky Horror Show,” Curry later reprised his iconic character in the 1975 film adaptation. He became celebrated for his portrayals of villainous figures, including Pennywise in the 1990 miniseries of Stephen King’s “It” and Rooster Hannigan in the 1982 movie “Annie.”
In addition to his on-screen performances, Curry’s voice talents were featured in various animated children’s productions such as “The Rugrats Movie,” “The Pebble and the Penguin,” “Rugrats in Paris,” and “The Wild Thornberrys Movie.” His versatile acting career earned him critical acclaim, with three Tony nominations for stage productions like “Spamalot” and an Emmy nomination for his role in the horror series “Tales from the Crypt.”
Praised for his ability to seamlessly transition between genres, Curry’s career spanned over five decades, showcasing his versatility in comedy, horror, drama, and music. His diverse roles included appearances in films like “The Three Musketeers,” “The Hunt for Red October,” and the TV series “Wiseguy.”
In response to his passing, colleagues and admirers paid tribute to Curry’s talent and legacy. Carol Burnett, his co-star in “Annie,” remembered him as a dear friend and exceptional performer, highlighting his unparalleled skill in portraying memorable villains. Actor Rob Schneider expressed his sorrow at the loss of Curry, citing his admiration for the late actor’s remarkable stage and screen presence.
Tributes also poured in from The Rocky Horror Show’s official Instagram page, acknowledging Curry as a singular talent who immortalized the role of Dr. Frank-N-Furter. Remembered not just for his characters but for creating iconic figures, Curry’s legacy as a versatile actor with a unique charm is deeply cherished by fans and the entertainment industry.