Tim Curry, the celebrated British actor, singer and voice performer best known for The Rocky Horror Picture Show and Stephen King’s It, has died at the age of 80.
Curry died peacefully at his home in Los Angeles on August 25, 2026, according to his longtime manager. A cause of death was not immediately disclosed. Reuters reported that Curry had been in ill health for some time.
Curry became an international star after portraying Dr. Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, the 1975 film adaptation of the stage musical. His performance became one of the most recognizable roles in cult cinema and helped make the movie a lasting midnight-movie phenomenon.
But Curry’s career went far beyond Rocky Horror. He earned Tony Award nominations for Broadway performances in Amadeus, My Favorite Year and Spamalot, showing his range as a dramatic and musical performer.
Film audiences also remember Curry from movies including Clue, Legend, Annie, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York and The Hunt for Red October. He became a familiar voice in animation as well, including his Emmy-winning work on Peter Pan and the Pirates and his role as Sir Nigel Thornberry in The Wild Thornberrys.
Another defining performance came in the 1990 television adaptation of Stephen King’s It, where Curry played the terrifying Pennywise the Clown. The role introduced him to a new generation of horror fans and remains one of his most remembered performances.
Curry also had a career in music. He released three studio albums during the late 1970s and early 1980s, adding recording artist to a career that already included stage, film and television work.
Curry suffered a major stroke in 2012 and later used a wheelchair, but he continued working, particularly in voice acting. He also remained connected to fans through appearances and interviews, including events celebrating The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
His death has prompted tributes from fellow performers and fans who remember him for his fearless performances, distinctive voice and ability to move between comedy, horror, drama and musical theatre.
Tim Curry leaves behind a career that crossed generations and genres. From Dr. Frank-N-Furter and Pennywise to Wadsworth and his many animated characters, his performances remain part of popular culture.
DLB Music Marketing extends condolences to Curry’s family, friends, colleagues and fans around the world.
