In 2012, beloved actor Tim Curry suffered a devastating stroke that left him partially paralyzed—an ordeal he kept private for nearly a year. The stroke occurred while he was receiving a massage at home, and thanks to the quick actions of his therapist who called 911 immediately, Curry’s life was saved. He was rushed to the hospital where doctors performed an emergency craniectomy, a procedure that involved removing part of his skull to relieve pressure on his brain and allow it to heal.

In his memoir, Vagabond, Curry shares vivid details of the experience, including how the removed bone was temporarily stored in his abdomen to keep it alive until it could be safely replaced—a rare but effective medical technique. He expressed deep gratitude toward the medical team, acknowledging the uncertainty of his survival but feeling thankful to have made it through. The recovery was long and challenging, requiring him to adjust to partial paralysis and the use of a wheelchair.

Despite these obstacles, Curry has continued to work, lending his voice to animated projects and appearing at fan conventions. Friends and fans admire his resilience, humor, and enduring spirit. Though he rarely discusses his health publicly, his memoir offers an honest reflection on how the stroke changed his life and perspective. Today, Tim Curry remains an inspiration—not only for his memorable roles but also for his courage and determination to keep creating against the odds.