Broadway’s “Rocky Horror” Star Luke Evans Shares Heartfelt Note He Sent Tim Curry 3 Weeks Before His Death

Welsh actor Luke Evans recently reflected on the legacy of the late Tim Curry, who passed away at the age of 80. Evans had just concluded his spirited performance as Dr. Frank-N-Furter in *The Rocky Horror Show* on Broadway, a role first made famous by Curry, whose pioneering performance has inspired generations of performers.

In a moving tribute shared on social media, Evans highlighted the impact Curry had on him and the theatre community. He composed a heartfelt letter to Curry just weeks before the actor’s passing, expressing gratitude for the inspiration Curry’s work provided. “You were a force, a bright fierce flame,” Evans described him, recalling Curry’s “exquisite charm” and “rich vocal tone.”

Evans shared snippets from the letter, which began, “Dear Tim, with only three weeks left before I finally hang up the fishnets and heels, I wanted to send you a note.” Though he and Curry had never met, Evans expressed how Curry’s profound influence loomed over his portrayal of the iconic character throughout his seven-month run. “Every actor who puts on Frank inevitably walks into a conversation that started with you,” he wrote, acknowledging the continuous thread that connects performers across generations.

Tim Curry was the original Dr. Frank-N-Furter when *The Rocky Horror Show* debuted at London’s Royal Court Theatre in 1973. His portrayal remained in the spotlight as the musical transitioned to Los Angeles and later to Broadway, where it officially opened in 1975. That same year, Curry cemented his legacy by featuring in *The Rocky Horror Picture Show*, which has since become a cult classic.

Although Curry is best known for his role in *Rocky Horror*, his illustrious career spanned much further, earning him three Tony Award nominations and notable film appearances in titles such as *Annie*, *Clue*, and *Home Alone 2: Lost in New York*. Evans acknowledged the comparisons often drawn between their performances in his letter, noting that while such compares were flattering, there would always be only one Tim Curry. “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,” he wrote.

In his heartfelt message, Evans clarified his intention, stating, “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.” He went on to emphasise gratitude not only for Curry’s creation of Frank-N-Furter but for the courage and trailblazing spirit he instilled in aspiring actors to take risks in their performances.

The touching letter concluded on a personal note as Evans wished Curry well in the afterlife. “I hope, wherever you are, you’d approve of one more Frank having the time of his life in those heels,” he wrote, signing off with, “With enormous admiration, Luke X.” Following his final performance on August 23, Evans’s tribute took on an even deeper resonance with the timing of Curry’s death just three days later.

Curry’s influence continues as Paul Soileau has stepped into the role of Frank-N-Furter through mid-September, followed by Jake Shears of the Scissor Sisters. The cast recently came together to memorialise Curry through a performance of “I’m Going Home” in his honour, demonstrating the impact he had on those fortunate enough to tread the boards alongside his legacy.

Richard O’Brien, the writer of *The Rocky Horror Show* and Curry’s co-star in its original production, expressed his sorrow over the loss of a dear friend on social media. With deep admiration, O’Brien described Curry as a brilliant performer who eschewed the spotlight in favour of celebrating the roles he inhabited. “He was a good egg and a class act,” O’Brien remarked poignantly, affirming the privilege it was to share in Curry’s journey through performance.

The enduring reach of Tim Curry’s contributions to theatre and film remains a testament to his extraordinary talent, ensuring that he will be remembered fondly by both fans and future actors alike.