Tim Curry, the celebrated actor known for his roles in classic films such as *The Rocky Horror Picture Show* and *It*, shared a candid memory from his time on the set of *Home Alone 2: Lost in New York* shortly before his death. In an interview conducted in October 2025, he recounted his experiences working at the Plaza Hotel in the early 1990s, in the presence of Donald Trump and his then-wife, Ivana Trump.
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Curry passed away on August 25, 2025, at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances that delighted audiences for decades. The Plaza Hotel, an iconic venue purchased by Donald Trump in 1988, served as a backdrop for the filming of *Home Alone 2*, which has since become a beloved holiday classic.
During the interview, Curry described a particularly amusing encounter with Ivana Trump, who was managing the hotel at the time of filming. The actor recalled a moment when she knocked on his room door, inquiring whether he was pleased with the décor. Curry’s honest response was far from what she might have wished to hear. He admitted to “fibbing” about his feelings towards the room’s design, confessing that he actually “loathed it.”
This light-hearted interaction offered a glimpse into Curry’s ability to handle potentially awkward situations with humour. The actor’s witty approach to responding to Ivana’s questions painted a vivid picture of a unique time in the hotel’s history, filled with both glamour and personal diplomacy.
At that point in time, Donald Trump was navigating his personal life in the public eye, having recently transitioned from his first marriage to Ivana to a relationship with Marla Maples. Curry recalled Trump being “very anxious” to introduce Maples to Chris Columbus, the film’s director—eagerly suggesting that his girlfriend could be the next big star in Hollywood. Curry, however, was far from convinced, maintaining a polite scepticism about her acting abilities.
The film itself became notable not only for its plot centred around a lost boy named Kevin McCallister, portrayed by Macaulay Culkin, but also for Donald Trump’s infamous cameo. In a memorable scene, Kevin encounters Trump in the hotel lobby. This moment has since generated considerable reflection, especially in light of Trump’s subsequent political career.
In recent interviews, Columbus expressed regret about casting Trump in the film. He was quoted saying that while it had become a significant point of contention for him, there was no scenario in which he would “beg a non-actor to be in a movie.” Despite the reservations, securing the Plaza Hotel for filming was a priority, ultimately leading to Trump’s appearance, which has become a well-known moment in cinematic history.
Curry’s journey within the realm of acting encompassed an array of genres and characters, but his anecdote regarding the Trumps showcased his charm and wit that endeared him to so many fans. As time passes, these behind-the-scenes stories contribute to the rich tapestry of Hollywood history, shedding light on the personalities and dynamics at play during the creation of beloved films.
With his passing, fans and colleagues alike remember Tim Curry not only for his extraordinary body of work but also for the joy and laughter he brought to his performances. His delightful anecdotes, such as those shared about his time at the Plaza Hotel, ensure that his spirit will continue to entertain and inspire generations to come.