Tim Curry is opening up about the longterm effects of a 2012 stroke.
"The Rocky Horror Picture Show" star told crowds at a celebration of the film's 50th anniversary Sept. 26 that he still struggles with mobility. The audience at the event, held at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles, burst into a raucous applause when Curry, 79, who played Dr. Frank-N-Furter in the film, rolled onto the stage in his wheelchair.
"I still can't walk, which is why I'm in this silly chair, and that's very limiting," said Curry, who charmed fans as the cross-dressing mad scientist. "So I won't be singing and I won't be dancing very soon. I still have real problems with my left leg."
Curry revealed he suffered the stroke while getting a massage and hadn't noticed anything was wrong. It was the masseuse who expressed worry and called an ambulance. Despite the lingering effects, the actor told the crowd he was thrilled to appear alongside castmates like Nell Campbell, who played Columbia in the movie, and Patricia Quinn, who played Magenta.
"I'm so excited by this and very honored by the Academy to do this presentation of our movie, which has dragged on for 50 years," he said. Before making it to the big screen, Curry originated the role of Frank-N-Furter in several stage productions.
Since his stroke, Curry, who was made famous from roles in "IT" and "Annie," has opted for more voice roles. More details on his rise to fame and his health struggles are expected in the actor's upcoming memoir, "Vagabond," which will hit shelves Oct. 7
If you're hoping to see the stars in person yourself, the original cast of "Rocky Horror" are celebrating the 50th anniversary with a 50+ city tour that began in September and will conclude on Nov. 13.
Barry Bostwick, Campbell and Quinn will be joining audiences at screenings to watch the unedited version of the movie, accompanied by a live shadow cast and audience participation. The events also feature memorabilia displays, VIP meet-and-greet opportunities, costume contests and more, as detailed on the tour website.
Contributing: Jennifer Borreson, USA TODAY
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Tim Curry gives health update after 2012 stroke
Reporting by Anna Kaufman, USA TODAY / USA TODAY
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