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🇫🇷 France /Culture & Society

Tim Curry, Iconic Actor from 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show,' Dies at 80

From Le Figaro · () French

Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News From a news agency Outcome reported
  • British actor Tim Curry, best known for his role as Dr. Frank N. Furter in the 1975 cult classic "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," has died at age 80.
  • Curry's career spanned decades, with memorable roles in films like "Clue" and "It," and television appearances.
  • He often played villainous characters, a type of role he found to be well-written and enjoyable.

Tim Curry, the versatile British actor celebrated for his unforgettable performance as Dr. Frank N. Furter in the 1975 musical "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," has passed away at the age of 80. His death was reported by entertainment news outlets, though the cause has not been disclosed. Curry had reportedly been in poor health for several years.

I'm just a sweet transvestite from Transsexual, Transylvania.

— Tim CurrySinging in "The Rocky Horror Picture Show."

Curry first embodied the eccentric scientist in the original 1973 London stage production of "The Rocky Horror Show." The role, which he reprised for the film adaptation, became his signature. In the film, he famously sang, "I'm just a sweet transvestite from Transsexual, Transylvania," clad in iconic attire. Despite initial hesitation, Curry embraced the role, later reflecting that he always believed a role was worth playing only if it involved taking risks.

When I read the text, I just found it very, very witty and funny.

— Tim CurryRecalling his initial reaction to the script of "The Rocky Horror Show."

While "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" gained its cult status through midnight screenings, Curry's career extended far beyond this singular role. His filmography includes appearances in "Clue" (1985), "Legend" (1985), "Home Alone" (1992), and "The Hunt for Red October" (1990). On television, he terrified audiences as Pennywise the Dancing Clown in the 1990 miniseries adaptation of Stephen King's "It."

But, I always thought that a role was not worth playing if you did not take a risk.

— Tim CurryExplaining his philosophy on choosing challenging roles.

Known for his distinctive laugh and often menacing on-screen presence, Curry frequently portrayed villains. He admitted in a 2011 interview that he relished these parts, stating, "I love these roles: they are always the best written." He also acknowledged taking on lesser-known projects, even winning a Razzie Award for a performance he felt he deservedly earned, demonstrating a self-aware approach to his extensive career.

I love these roles: they are always the best written.

— Tim CurryDiscussing his preference for playing villainous characters.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Le Figaro in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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