Tim Curry’s cause of death revealed one week after actor died at 80: What we know

Tim Curry’s cause of death has been revealed about a week after the beloved British actor died at his Los Angeles home. Curry, best known for his unforgettable performances in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, It and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, was 80.

According to documents from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health obtained by PEOPLE, Curry died from coronary artery disease. The records also listed a history of stroke and kidney cancer as significant conditions that contributed to his death. (People.com⁠)

Curry died peacefully at his home in the Toluca Lake area of Los Angeles on August 25, 2026. When his death was initially announced, his representative did not disclose a cause. The newly reported information provides more detail about the health issues the actor faced in his later years. (People.com⁠)

A career filled with unforgettable roles

Curry built a remarkable career across film, television, theater and voice acting. His breakthrough came with the stage production of The Rocky Horror Show, where he originated the role of Dr. Frank-N-Furter. He later brought the character to the big screen in the 1975 cult classic The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

The performance transformed Curry into a pop-culture icon and made him a favorite among generations of fans.

He also showed his range in films including Clue, Annie, Legend and Muppet Treasure Island. Younger audiences may remember him as the eccentric concierge in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. (Los Angeles Times⁠)

Curry became equally famous for his chilling portrayal of Pennywise the clown in the 1990 television adaptation of Stephen King’s It. His performance remains one of the most memorable portrayals of the character.

Health struggles in his later years

Curry suffered a major stroke in 2012, which significantly affected his mobility. He eventually relied on a wheelchair and shifted much of his professional focus toward voice acting. Despite those challenges, he continued working and occasionally appeared publicly. (EW.com⁠)

In 2025, Curry participated in events marking the 50th anniversary of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, giving fans another opportunity to celebrate his extraordinary career.

His death marks the end of a career that lasted more than five decades. From the theater stage to horror classics and family comedies, Curry consistently brought a distinctive energy to every role.

For fans around the world, his legacy will live on through the unforgettable characters that made Tim Curry one of entertainment’s most recognizable and versatile performers.