Tim Curry, the British actor best known for playing Dr Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, has died aged 80. Tributes from former co-stars and admirers highlighted his distinctive talent, warmth and influence, particularly his role in helping make Rocky Horror an enduring cult phenomenon.

Born in Warrington in 1946, Curry died peacefully at his Los Angeles home on 25 August, according to his manager; he had used a wheelchair since a major stroke in 2012. His six-decade career covered theatre, film and television, including It, Annie, Home Alone 2, Clue, Muppet Treasure Island and Spamalot, with Susan Sarandon, Richard O’Brien and Luke Evans among those praising his fearless performances.