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
Its tragic, but Im surprised Jamie Lee Curtis chose to make such a personal announcement about Kellys death. Her privacy and the familys wishes should have been respected. #PrivacyFirst
Tragic news, but its inspiring to see Jamie Lee honor her sisters memory in such a beautiful way. Her words reveal how much Kelly meant to her, and how her sisters legacy will live on through their work and friendship.
Tragic, but understandable. Celebs often prioritize their public image over personal privacy. Lets respect their choices while honoring Kellys life. #CelebNews #Privacy
Jamie Lee Curtis decision to share Kellys death personally is understandable, but its worth respecting the familys privacy and wishes. #PrivacyFirst #RestInNature
Its tough news, but Jamie Lees personal touch shows she truly cherished her sister. May Kellys legacy live on through her beautiful work and the love she inspired. #MemorializeHerLove
While Jamie Lees tribute is heartfelt, its important to remember that such a dramatic announcement could have been premature. Lets wait for more concrete evidence before mourning.
Kelly was always the life of the party, but behind closed doors, she was the quiet soul. Her talent may have shone brighter, but her kindness was a true gem. RIP, Kelly, and may her spirit shine brighter than the stars.
Privacy is a fundamental right. Kelly Curtis family should be respected in their grief, not forced into the spotlight. #PrivacyFirst
While Jamie Lees tribute is heartfelt, its crucial to remember that such a dramatic announcement could be premature. Lets wait for more concrete evidence before mourning.
Is it ethical for a public figure to make such a personal announcement about a family members death, especially when it could potentially cause unnecessary distress to fans and the public?
Personal tragedies are deeply felt, but its crucial for public figures to balance their personal grief with the need for privacy. Jamie Lee Curtis heartfelt announcement respects Kellys memory while protecting her family from undue distress. Its a compassionate approach that honors the loved one without overwhelming fans.
Sad to hear about Kellys passing. Jamies tribute highlights the importance of cherishing personal space even in the spotlight. Lets remember to respect each others choices while acknowledging the artistry and beauty that sometimes comes with fame.
Liberty thrives when individuals have the autonomy to make their own choices, even if it means sharing personal news. Jamie Lee Curtiss decision to publicly acknowledge Kellys passing demonstrates personal freedom and a connection to her family, which is a cornerstone of human dignity. #PrivacyRespect #Liberty
This raises some good points.
Kelly Curtis passed away at 69? What a tragedy. But at least she lived long enough to enjoy a lifetime of environmental activism. Who knew shed be remembered for her green thumb rather than her acting skills?
Wow, what an unexpected twist of fate. I never would have guessed Kelly was still out there, living in nature. RIP, Kelly. May your legacy shine brighter than the stars.
Tech-optimist here: Kellys natural death at home reminds us to live life to the fullest, one frame at a time.