Tim Curry died from coronary artery disease, according to documents from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health obtained by People.
The records list a history of stroke and kidney cancer as other significant conditions that contributed to the actor’s death, but not as the underlying cause. They also state that no surgery was carried out for any of the conditions. ([latimes.com](https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/story/2026-09-02/tim-curry-cause-of-death-rocky-horror))
Curry died at his home in Toluca Lake, Los Angeles, on 25 August 2026. He was 80. His death was initially announced by his longtime manager and friend, Marcia Hurwitz, who said he had died peacefully but did not disclose a cause. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/ece7aebde225cfcd16745cd0584494dd))
Tim Curry’s health after his stroke
The British actor suffered a major stroke in 2012, leaving him partially paralysed and reliant on a wheelchair. He later spoke publicly about its lasting impact, including problems with his speech, mobility and left leg.
At a special screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Academy Museum in Los Angeles in September 2025, Curry recalled that he had been receiving a massage when the therapist became concerned and called an ambulance.
Curry said he had not initially realised anything was wrong. He also acknowledged that he could no longer walk and was unlikely to sing or dance again, although he continued to appear at events connected with his work.
According to further reporting by Us, Curry was cremated on 31 August and his remains were sent to the United Kingdom. No autopsy was carried out. ([usmagazine.com](https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/tim-currys-cause-of-death-revealed-after-he-died-at-80/))
A career defined by Rocky Horror
Curry became internationally known for playing Dr Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, having originated the role in the stage production at London’s Royal Court Theatre in 1973 before starring in the 1975 film.
The film became a cult phenomenon, with midnight screenings and audience participation helping to secure its enduring place in popular culture. Curry later returned to the franchise as the narrator in the 2016 television remake, The Rocky Horror Picture Show: Let’s Do the Time Warp Again.
His other notable screen roles included the sinister Pennywise in the television adaptation of Stephen King’s It, the butler Wadsworth in Clue, Rooster Hannigan in Annie, the Plaza Hotel concierge in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York and Long John Silver in Muppet Treasure Island.
He also enjoyed a distinguished stage career, beginning with the London company of the musical Hair. Curry received three Tony Award nominations for his performances in Amadeus, My Favorite Year and Spamalot, while also working extensively as a voice actor.
Carol Burnett, who appeared alongside him in Annie, paid tribute to Curry after his death, describing him as a dear friend and praising his ability to play “lovable villains”.
