Actor Tim Curry, star of "It" and "The Rocky Horror Show", dies

British actor Tim Curry, who became famous for his roles as Dr. Frank-N-Furter in the cult musical "The Rocky Horror Show" and as the clown Pennywise in the adaptation of Stephen King's novel "It", died at the age of 80.

His death was confirmed by his longtime manager and friend Marcia Hurwitz. Curry died at his home in Los Angeles. The cause of death was not disclosed.

Curry was born on April 19, 1946, in the English county of Cheshire. He began his professional career on the theater stage: in 1968, the actor appeared in the London production of the musical "Hair".

He gained worldwide fame with the role of Dr. Frank-N-Furter. Curry first played this character in the stage production of "The Rocky Horror Show" in London in 1973, and in 1975 he repeated the role in the film of the same name.

The movie initially was not a box office hit, but over time it acquired a cult status. Midnight screenings with participation of audience members who dressed as the film's characters and reenacted scenes from it turned "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" into one of the most famous cult films in cinema history.

Another of Curry's most recognizable roles was the clown Pennywise in the 1990 television adaptation of Stephen King's novel "It". His portrayal became one of the most famous screen incarnations of that character for many years.

The actor also starred in films "Clue", "Legend", "Annie", "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York" and "Muppet Treasure Island". Besides movies, Curry worked extensively in theater and was nominated for a Tony Award three times.

A significant part of his career was devoted to voice acting. Curry's voice was heard in numerous cartoons, TV series and video games. For his work in the animated series "Peter Pan and the Pirates" the actor received a Daytime Emmy Award.

In 2012, Curry suffered a severe stroke, after which he partially lost mobility and used a wheelchair. Despite this, he continued to work, primarily in voice acting, and also periodically appeared at public events.

In 2024, the actor returned to the big screen in the horror movie "Stream". A year later, his memoirs "Vagabond" were published, in which Curry recounted his long career, work in theater and film, and life after the stroke.

Based on materials from: Associated Press, Los Angeles Times, The Guardian