Actor Tim Curry, who starred in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, has died at his home in Los Angeles at the age of 80.
Curry passed away on Tuesday evening, August 25, 2026. His manager confirmed his death the following day.
While an official cause of death has not been disclosed, Curry suffered a stroke in 2012 that left him unable to walk and led to severe health issues over the past decade.
Richard O'Brien, the 84-year-old creator of The Rocky Horror Show, led tributes to the actor, describing Curry as a wonderful human being, a real gentleman, and a class act who never sought attention or placed himself above his roles.
Writing with a heavy heart, O'Brien said Curry was a naturally gifted performer who understood the distinction between talent and character. He added that knowing and working alongside Curry was a privilege and a joy.
Tributes from Hollywood co-stars
Curry gained widespread international fame playing Dr. Frank-N-Furter, an eccentric scientist from the planet Transsexual in the galaxy of Transylvania, in the 1975 cult film adaptation.
O'Brien wrote the original theatrical musical in 1973, which has remained in continuous stage production ever since. He later co-wrote the 1975 film screenplay alongside director Jim Sharman.
Despite Curry's desire to avoid being typecast throughout his career, his memorable performance as Dr. Frank-N-Furter became his most defining screen role.
Other prominent actors also shared tributes following the news of his death. Actress Susan Sarandon, who co-starred in the 1975 film, publicly bade farewell to Curry, stating that what she loved most about him was his heart.
Actress Marisa Tomei expressed her gratitude that their paths had crossed, describing the late actor as a unique talent.
Before his death, Curry reflected on his long recovery in his autobiography, writing that being unable to speak clearly after his 2012 stroke was absolute misery.
Career legacy and television work
Beyond his famous stage and screen collaborations with Curry, O'Brien is also known to television audiences as the host of the British game show The Crystal Maze, which he presented from 1990 to 1993.
