08/27/2026
The lights of stage and screen continue to dim this week with the passing of another Arts Icon - Tim Curry, who died Tuesday at the age of 80. South Jackson Performing Arts Center joins the worldwide arts community in remembering an extraordinary performer whose nearly six-decade career crossed theatre, film, television, music and voice acting.
Curry was truly one of a kind. He originated the legendary role of Dr. Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Show and brought his unmistakable talent to Hair, Amadeus, The Pirates of Penzance and Monty Pythonโs Spamalot. His remarkable stage career earned him three Tony Award nominations and influenced generations of performers who followed.
His work on screen was just as memorable. From The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Annie and Clue to Legend, It, Muppet Treasure Island and countless other performances, Curry possessed the rare ability to be hilarious, frightening, outrageous, elegant and completely unforgettable.
What made Tim Curry especially remarkable was the fearlessness he brought to his craft. He never seemed afraid of the unusual character or the unexpected choice. Through those performances, he demonstrated something at the very heart of the arts: their ability to challenge expectations, surprise audiences, create laughter and give people the freedom to simply be themselves.
That spirit will live on whenever an actor walks onto a stage and has the courage to make a bold choice.
The arts community has endured some heartbreaking losses this week as we have said goodbye to icons whose work shaped generations. Moments like these remind us that while an artistโs time on the stage eventually ends, the art they create can continue speaking to audiences for decades.
Thank you, Tim Curry, for the music, the laughter, the wonderfully unforgettable characters and a lifetime given to the arts.
A true original. A legend of Stage and Screen.
The final curtain may have fallen, but generations to come will still be doing the Time Warp.
Rest well, Tim Curry. ๐ญ
