Why is Tim Curry in a wheelchair? Health struggles explored as beloved Rocky Horror star spotted during rare outing

Tim Curry, the beloved British actor most famous for his role as Dr. Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, was spotted making a rare public appearance in Los Angeles. The 79-year-old was seen in a red sweater and matching sneakers while being pushed out of Gelson’s supermarket in a wheelchair.

Tim Curry has largely been out of the public eye in recent years after a life-changing stroke in 2012. It partially paralysed him and affected his speech, causing him to retreat from his acting career.

The condition has drastically affected his access to both his public life and his ability to perform roles for movies. Curry has used a wheelchair since the incident and has been undertaking therapy to help him move and communicate better.

After being hit with the disorder, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Actors Fund Tony Awards Viewing Party in 2015, after making a rare public appearance. At the event, Tim Curry spoke a little bit about his recovery, mentioning that his own sharp wit was the key to battling the effects of the stroke.

"It’s not tough to maintain. It is just part of my DNA. It’s very gracious of them, I think. I was thrilled when they told me and I am thrilled now," he added.

More about Tim Curry's career before and after being affected by the stroke

Prior to his health struggles, Tim Curry had a successful career in film, television, theatre, and music. In addition to Rocky Horror, he played major roles in movies like Clue, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, Legend, and as Pennywise in the 1990 adaptation of Stephen King’s It.

According to Remind Magazine, he also cut several rock albums and lent his voice to more than 150 animated projects and audiobooks.

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While he is now not as active as he was in the entertainment industry, Curry has still managed to stay relevant thanks to his career in voiceover. He has been able to use his voice in many animation projects and series, including Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Ben 10: Omniverse. He also starred in the horror film Stream in 2024, which marked his first film role in 14 years.

According to The Sun, Tim Curry has also used virtual fan interactions to address his fans in recent years. Since 2023, he has made appearances at venues such as GalaxyCon and CreepieCon, networking with fans during interviews and video chats.

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