Tim Curry Reveals His Most Cherished Film Role Ever

Tim Curry has long been celebrated for his unforgettable portrayals of delightfully wicked characters, always laced with a playful sense of humor. For many, the first encounter with The Rocky Horror Picture Show left a lasting impression—whether it was a moment of self-discovery or simply a jaw-dropping spectacle, Curry’s performance as Dr. Frank-N-Furter was nothing short of iconic. Picture anyone else stepping into that role in 1975, donning a dramatic cape, sparkling black lingerie, and a bold face of makeup to belt out ‘Sweet Transvestite.’ With stars like Harrison Ford, Robert De Niro, and Jack Nicholson dominating the era, it’s hard to imagine anyone else bringing the same fearless creativity and charisma to the part. Curry’s unique talent made him a star who could never be boxed into a single type of role.

From Cult Classic to Scene-Stealing Roles

Though he never fit the mold of a traditional leading man, Curry’s versatility has won over audiences in a wide range of films. Whether he was stealing scenes in Annie, Home Alone 2, The Hunt for Red October, or Clue, his performances always stood out. Yet, among all these memorable appearances, one project holds a special place in his heart.

In a 2025 interview with The Guardian, Curry shared his affection for a certain group of beloved puppets.

“I would love to work with the Muppets again,”

he recalled, reflecting on his time filming Muppet Treasure Island in 1996. What made the experience truly magical for him was the dedication of the puppeteers, who never broke character as long as the Muppets were on their hands.

“I love that,”

Curry said, revealing that Miss Piggy was his favorite among the cast.

Long John Silver and the Muppet Magic

Muppet Treasure Island, a whimsical musical take on Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic adventure, cast Curry as Long John Silver—a pirate with a velvet voice and a knack for mischief. As always, he managed to blend menace with charm, a signature combination that runs through his diverse body of work. Despite the franchise’s ability to attract stars like Usher, Toby Jones, Lady Gaga, and Michael Caine, Curry’s singular talent stands out.

It’s a bit surprising that he hasn’t returned to the Muppet universe since the ‘90s. With his remarkable ability to fully inhabit any character, Curry could easily slip into a new role and make audiences forget he’d ever been there before. He’s more than ready to pick up a puppet and maybe even lend his voice to one of those iconic felt creations.