Tim Curry, the actor best known for his role as the flamboyant Transylvanian Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, has been confirmed to have died from coronary artery disease. He was 80 years old at the time of his death, which occurred a week before the official announcement. According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, a history of stroke and kidney cancer were also listed as contributing factors to his death. Curry had been dealing with health challenges for years, including a stroke in 2012 that left him partially paralyzed and forced him to step back from public appearances. Coronary artery disease (CAD), also known as coronary heart disease or ischemic heart disease, is the most common type of heart disease in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries that supply blood to the heart, narrowing them and reducing blood flow. This can lead to chest pain, known as angina, or even a heart attack. Risk factors for CAD include being overweight, leading a sedentary lifestyle, eating an unhealthy diet, smoking, and having a family history of heart disease. Curry had previously spoken candidly about his health struggles. At a special screening in October to celebrate the 50th anniversary of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, he revealed that he still had difficulty walking and was reliant on a wheelchair, which limited his ability to perform. He also shared details about his 2012 stroke, which he had not publicly disclosed until nearly a year after it occurred. During a massage, he had not realized anything was wrong until his masseur insisted on calling an ambulance. Though Curry initially dismissed the idea, the prompt action likely saved his life. After weeks of limited speech, he recovered his voice and continued to work as a voice actor. Curry first gained fame in 1973 as the star of The Rocky Horror Show, a sci-fi, cross-dressing rock musical that premiered in London before moving to Broadway. His performance in the 1975 film adaptation of the show, alongside stars like Barry Bostwick and Meat Loaf, made him a cult icon. The film is remembered for its bold representation of LGBTQ+ themes and for memorable moments like the song "The Time Warp" and the catchphrase "Dammit, Janet!" His legacy as an actor and performer continues to be celebrated by fans around the world.