Broadway Stars Pay Tribute to Late Actor Tim Curry

Members of the theater community, led by Tony-nominated Broadway actor Luke Evans, have issued emotional tributes honoring the legacy of original Rocky Horror star Tim Curry following his passing.

Evans recently wrapped up a seven-month run playing Frank-N-Furter in the hit Broadway revival of The Rocky Horror Show, performing his final show at Frankenstein's Place.

Reflecting on Curry's profound influence on the iconic role and the broader performing arts world, Evans expressed his deep admiration for the late actor's memorable artistry.

"a force, a bright fierce flame, an exquisite charm and that rich vocal tone, he was an inspiration to me and so many more people for the roles he played and the effect he had on so many of us. There will only be one Tim Curry. All the rest of us will just have to do our best to emulate some of the magic of that role that I've just spent 7 months playing." said Luke Evans, actor.

Evans revealed that he sent a personal letter of gratitude to Curry three weeks before his death, which he chose to make public following the news of his passing.

"With only three weeks left before I finally hang up the fishnets and heels, I wanted to send you a note. Although we've never met, you've been part of this journey from the very beginning. Every actor who puts on Frank inevitably walks into a conversation that started with you, and I've felt that every single night." said Luke Evans, actor.

The letter highlighted how Curry's initial portrayal set a standard for all future actors who stepped into the character's famous footwear.

"Being compared to you has been one of the greatest compliments I've ever received, even though it's a comparison no one could ever hope to live up to. There is, and always will be, only one Tim Curry." said Luke Evans, actor.

Evans emphasized that his performance was aimed at honoring Curry's foundational work rather than attempting a direct imitation.

"I've never tried to recreate what you did. That would be impossible. I simply hoped to honour the extraordinary character you brought to life, while finding my own way through him." said Luke Evans, actor.

He concluded his letter by expressing deep gratitude for Curry's fearless contribution to theater and film.

"As this chapter comes to an end, I just wanted to say thank you. For your fearless performance, for creating something so enduring, and for inspiring generations of actors to be a little braver than they thought they could be." said Luke Evans, actor.

Evans shared a final warm sentiment regarding his time performing the famous role on stage.

"I hope, wherever you are, you'd approve of one more Frank having the time of his life in those heels." said Luke Evans, actor.

Linus O'Brien, son of creator Richard O'Brien and director of the documentary Strange Journey, released a statement recounting Curry's original 1973 audition and lasting impact.

"I heard the very sad news this morning that Tim passed away. We were very fortunate that he bumped into my Dad one day in Earls Court in 1973. It was in that chance meeting that my Dad mentioned to Tim that he had written a musical that was going to go on at the Royal Court Theater Upstairs.

He told Tim that he should audition and that Jim Sharman wanted everyone to bring along Rock N' Roll song. Tim came in the next day and sang 'Tutti Frutti' by Little Richard. He blew everyone's socks off and they all knew that he was Frank N' Furter.

There's an argument to be made that if Tim hadn't taken the role, then Rocky might not have had the success that it has and I think that's a distinct possibility. His charisma, confidence and wit was ever present in his daily life and he brought that and so much more to the most iconic debut in the history of cinema. This photo was taken of my Dad and Tim at the after party for the Evening Standard Awards where Rocky Horror won for Best New Musical.

After it flopped on Broadway, my Dad and Tim stood on the sidewalk outside their hotel and my Dad said, 'Well, I guess that's it' and Tim said, 'But it's been a great ride for three years.' My Dad agreed and they said goodbye. They both just needed to add '50' to that number.

On a personal note, it was so lovely when I got to interview Tim for our documentary, Strange Journey. He was warm, funny and just his lovely self. At the 50th anniversary of RHPS at the Roxy, in a quiet moment, he told me I had lovely skin and in response I struck a coquette-ish pose that made him laugh and smile.

God bless you Tim, you made the world a brighter place." said Linus O'Brien, filmmaker.

Sam Pinkleton, director of the Broadway revival, offered a brief tribute acknowledging Curry's central role in the theatrical universe.

"the northernmost star, the center of the galaxy. Thank you for helping so many of us exist." said Sam Pinkleton, director.

The overarching production of the Broadway revival also released an official statement honoring Curry's legacy and enduring influence.

"remembering the legendary Tim Curry, who first brought Frank-N-Furter to life. We are heartbroken by his passing and grateful for the unforgettable legacy he leaves behind. Thank you, Tim, for giving the world a little more freedom, a little more fearlessness, and through the tears in our eyes, the courage to BE IT. We love you." said representatives of The Rocky Horror Show revival.