LOS ANGELES — Tim Curry, the acclaimed actor whose wide-ranging career included memorable roles in “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” “It” and “Clue,” has died at the age of 80, according to a report from TMZ.
TMZ, which appeared to be the first outlet to report Curry’s death, cited sources who said the actor died late Tuesday night at his Los Angeles home after dealing with serious health issues for more than a decade.
Law enforcement sources told TMZ that police responded to Curry’s home at approximately 11:23 p.m. Tuesday. No foul play is suspected, according to the report.
Curry began his acting career in the late 1960s and rose to international prominence as Dr. Frank-N-Furter in the 1975 musical comedy horror film “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.”
Although the film initially received a mixed response, it eventually became one of the best-known cult films in cinema history. Midnight screenings, often featuring audiences dressed as characters and participating along with the movie, helped turn “Rocky Horror” into a lasting cultural phenomenon.
Curry went on to build a career spanning film, television, theater and voice acting.
Among his most recognizable performances was his portrayal of Pennywise the Dancing Clown in the 1990 television adaptation of Stephen King’s “It.” He also played the butler Wadsworth in the 1985 comedy mystery “Clue” and appeared as the Plaza Hotel concierge Mr. Hector in “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York.”
His numerous other film credits included “Annie,” “The Hunt for Red October,” “Muppet Treasure Island,” “Addams Family Reunion” and “Scary Movie 2.”
Curry was also an accomplished stage performer. During his career, he received three Tony Award nominations as well as an Emmy nomination.
His ability to perform became more limited after he suffered a major stroke in 2012. Curry subsequently used a wheelchair but continued to make public appearances and participate in acting and voice work.
In 2025, Curry released his memoir, “Vagabond,” chronicling his life and decades-long career in entertainment. Around the time of its release, he said he remained unable to walk as a result of the stroke.
Curry was 80.
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