Tributes continue to pour in following the passing of Tim Curry, the legendary actor renowned for iconic roles in productions such as The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Home Alone 2, and even Star Wars.
Tim’s journey into acting and singing took root during his formative years at Kingswood School, where he attended on scholarship from 1956 to 1964. Beginning at just 13 years old, Tim made his theatrical debut playing Tobit in Tobias and the Angel, captivating audiences and showcasing the talent that would later command international acclaim.
Born to a Methodist Royal Naval Chaplain, Tim moved to Plymouth, Devon, at the age of 11 after spending time in various British seaside towns, establishing his early connection to the South West.
READ MORE: Police Granted Additional Powers Ahead of Taunton Protest
READ MORE: Inside the £2.50 Somerset Festival Headlined by Led Zeppelin That Inspired Glastonbury
The Kingswood Foundation expressed deep sorrow following his death at his home in Los Angeles, which occurred after years of ill health; notably, he suffered a significant stroke in 2012 that left his left side paralysed. Although the precise cause of death has not been disclosed, his passing marks the end of an extraordinary era.
Andrew Gordon-Brown, Principal of the Kingswood Foundation, reflected on Tim’s remarkable school years: “Long before becoming globally renowned for unforgettable roles such as Dr Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Show and King Arthur in Spamalot, Tim cultivated his exceptional talents on the Kingswood stage. His vibrant personality was evident from an early age, starting as a boy soprano winning accolades at the Mid-Somerset Festival and actively engaging in school life.”
Tim’s theatrical credits at Kingswood included roles like the Postmaster in Gogol’s The Government Inspector and the Earl of Pembroke in Shakespeare’s King John. His standout performance came in 1964 portraying Phacides in William Golding’s The Brass Butterfly, a role that “deservedly brought the house down,” foreshadowing the remarkable future that awaited him.
Drama producer John Gardner fondly remembered Tim as “a live wire” with a clear and compelling presence, who was “always fully committed to every production.”
The school community honours Tim Curry’s extraordinary career and enduring legacy with great pride and remembrance. “He is warmly recalled with affection and gratitude by generations at Kingswood,” said Gordon-Brown. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Tim’s family and friends during this difficult time.”