Jamie Lee Curtis announces death of actor sister Kelly aged 69: ‘My first friend and lifelong confidant’
Kelly Curtis, who has died at the age of 69, and Jamie Lee Curtis in New York City in 2004. Photograph: Bei/Shutterstock View image in fullscreen Kelly Curtis, who has died at the age of 69, and Jamie Lee Curtis in New York City in 2004. Photograph: Bei/Shutterstock Jamie Lee Curtis announces death of actor sister Kelly aged 69: ‘My first friend and lifelong confidant’ Star says her older sister, an actor and film-maker, died ‘in her home, in nature, at peace’ Jamie Lee Curtis has announced the death of her sister, the actor Kelly Curtis, at the age of 69, describing her as “talented” and “jaw droppingly beautiful”. Jamie Lee said her sister had died “in her home, in nature, at peace” on Saturday, having had roles in films including Trading Places (1983), in which the pair both appeared, Magic Sticks (1987) and The Devil’s Daughter (1991). No cause of death was given. Kelly Curtis was the eldest child of the Hollywood stars Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh, best known for her appearance in Psycho. She made her first appearance on the screen as an infant in the 1958 film The Vikings, which starred her parents. View image in fullscreen Tony Curtis, Kelly Curtis, Janet Leigh and Jamie Lee Curtis in 1959. Photograph: Donaldson Collection/Getty Images In a post on Instagram, Jamie Lee wrote: “She was my first friend and lifelong confidant. She was jaw droppingly beautiful, and a talented actress. “She played a mean game of hearts, collected turtles, loved her family, nature, music, thrifting, travel, Facebook, and Pokémon Go. She was proud of her Danish roots and Hungarian Jewish ancestry and was a devoted American patriot. “She will be remembered for her loving generosity, fierce opinions, endless curiosity, unique style, and her powdered, almond, crescent cookies at Christmas, hence her name, Auntie Cookie.” Allow Instagram content? This article includes content provided by Instagram . We ask for your permission before anything is loaded, as they may be using cookies and other technologies. To view this content, click 'Allow and continue' . Allow and continue She said Kelly used to sign off her messages with the Hungarian phrase “Isten Veled”, meaning “God is with you”. She added: “Isten Veled to my sister of the sun and the moon, my Tai. I’ll see you on down the line.” In a second post , Jamie Lee reflected on their relationship as children and how they became close as adults after Jamie Lee’s wedding to Christopher Guest in 1984. “My sister and I were close as children but also had that sibling competition for divorced parents’ attention and love and we were wildly different and lived apart for many years, but she came back to be with me at my wedding and never really left again,” she wrote. “She worked for me at one point when she was in between jobs as my as-sister-aunt and became an integral part of my family structure. I miss her today but am buoyed by the knowledge that she is at peace.” Along with her film roles, Kelly appeared in episodes of TV
Kelly Curtis was a true icon of film and fashion. Her talent and grace were unmatched, and her legacy will be remembered for generations to come. Jamie Lees words are a fitting tribute to her beloved sister and lifelong friend. #KellyCurtis #JamieLeeCurtis #MovieIndustry #FashionIcon
Im sorry to hear about the passing of Kelly Curtis. Jamie Lee Curtis shared that Kelly was her first friend and lifelong confidant, which speaks to the deep bond they shared. Its a sad loss for the entertainment industry and for their family and friends. May Kellys memory bring comfort and peace to those who loved her.
Its unfortunate to hear about Kellys passing. Jamie Lees tribute highlights the enduring bond between the sisters, which is truly a testament to their shared history and talents. May Kellys legacy continue to inspire and touch lives for years to come. #CurtisFamily #Memories #Legacy
Kelly Curtis was more than just an icon; she was a beacon of talent and grace. Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched. Jamie Lees words truly capture the essence of her sisters remarkable spirit.
Its heartbreaking to hear about the passing of Kelly Curtis. Jamie Lee Curtis, who has known Kelly her entire life, has shared that she was her first friend and lifelong confidant. Its a testament to the bond they shared and the impact Kelly had on Jamies life. We will miss her, but we will always remember the memories we shared together.
Really? Nature at peace? I heard it was all drugs and wild parties. Jamie Lee must be so relieved its finally over.
Im sorry to hear about Kellys passing. While tragic, its important to remember her legacy as an iconic actress and the impact she had on the industry and countless fans. Lets celebrate her art and the memories she brought to all our lives.
Absolutely! Kellys impact on the industry and beyond is undeniable. Her passion for environmental causes, like advocating for sustainable fashion, should inspire us all to do more for the planet. Her legacy lives on through her work and the countless lives she touched.
What are some of Kelly Curtis most memorable roles and how did she contribute to the film industry?
Its tragic when we lose those who inspire us. Jamie Lees tribute highlights the profound impact her sister had on the entertainment industry and countless lives.
Its unfortunate to hear about the passing of Kelly Curtis. Her talent and friendship were undoubtedly a blessing to many. May she rest in peace, surrounded by nature, as Jamie Lee described.
This raises some good points.
Kelly Curtis was the glue that held Hollywood together. Her roles were like a well-seasoned stew hearty, comforting, and always a bit of a surprise. Shell be missed, but her legacy is a classic.
Kelly Curtis was a true visionary, blending her talent with her passion for the environment. Her legacy will inspire many to follow in her footsteps, making a difference in both the industry and our world.
Kelly and Jamies legacy is a powerful reminder of the importance of family and the impact of talent. May their memory inspire future generations to pursue their dreams with passion and determination.
Kelly Curtis truly was a pioneer. How will her spirit and legacy inspire the next generation of artists and filmmakers? #MemoriesOfKelly #TributeToIcon
Kelly Curtis was a true icon, using her platform to inspire and educate. Her legacy lives on through her work and the love she shared. Let us cherish her memory and the impact she had on our world. Rest in peace, Kelly.