Tim Curry’s cause of death has been revealed one week after the celebrated actor and singer died at the age of 80.
According to documents from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health obtained by People, Curry died on Aug. 25 from coronary artery disease. The documents also listed his history of stroke and kidney cancer as significant conditions that contributed to his death, although neither was identified as the underlying cause.
Curry died peacefully at his home in Toluca Lake, Los Angeles, according to his representatives. His death was initially announced without a cause, with his manager confirming that he had died at 80.
The newly released records also state that Curry did not undergo surgery for coronary artery disease, kidney cancer or his history of stroke. He suffered a major stroke in 2012, which resulted in paralysis and significantly reduced his mobility. In the years that followed, Curry continued working, particularly through voice performances and appearances connected to his most recognized projects.
Curry became internationally known for portraying Dr. Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Show and its 1975 film adaptation, The Rocky Horror Picture Show. The role became the defining performance of his career and helped establish the movie as a long-running cult classic.
His career also included memorable performances in Clue, Annie, Legend, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, Muppet Treasure Island and the 1990 television adaptation of Stephen King’s It, in which he played the terrifying Pennywise the Dancing Clown. He also maintained a significant stage career, earning three Tony Award nominations for productions including Amadeus, My Favorite Year and Spamalot.
Curry remained connected with audiences after his stroke through conventions, voice work and public appearances. In 2025, he released his memoir Vagabond and participated in events marking the 50th anniversary of The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
Following news of his death, former colleagues and friends have continued to share memories of Curry and his decades-long career. Actress Lesley Ann Warren, his Clue co-star, recently recalled his physical struggles in his later years while reflecting on their work together.
The release of the Los Angeles County records now provides the official cause of death following Curry’s passing on Aug. 25. The documents identify coronary artery disease as the cause, with his history of stroke and kidney cancer listed as contributing conditions.
