Tim Curry, star of Rocky Horror and It, dies aged 79

Tim Curry, one of Britain's most versatile and beloved character actors, has died at the age of 79. The actor became a global icon through his flamboyant performance as Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975) and terrified a generation as Pennywise the Dancing Clown in the 1990 TV adaptation of Stephen King's It.

Born in Cheshire in 1946, Curry trained at Birmingham University and began his career in theatre before transitioning to film and television. His career spanned six decades and encompassed a remarkable range of roles, from villains and comedic parts to musical performances and voice acting.

Among his other celebrated roles were Cardinal Richelieu in The Three Musketeers (1993), the villain in Clue (1985), Long John Silver in Muppet Treasure Island (1996), and the villain Hexxus in FernGully: The Last Rainforest. He also voiced many characters in animated series and video games.

In 2012, Curry suffered a major stroke that left him using a wheelchair. He continued to work in voice roles and made occasional public appearances. He is remembered not only for his talent but for his warmth, wit and irreverent personality.

His representatives confirmed his death, saying he had died peacefully surrounded by friends and family.