Kelly Lee Curtis, an actress and producer who was the older sister of Oscar winner Jamie Lee Curtis, has died at age 69. Jamie Lee Curtis announced her sister’s passing in an emotional social media post, calling Kelly her “first friend and lifelong confidant.”
Tribute to Kelly Lee Curtis, the talented sister of Jamie Lee Curtis, who has left us at the age of 69. A life full of creativity.
According to Curtis’s tribute, Kelly died peacefully at her home surrounded by nature. The cause of death has not been released.
In her message, Jamie Lee Curtis remembered Kelly as a talented woman with a passion for family, nature, music, travel, and creative pursuits. She ended her farewell with the words: “I’ll see you on down the line.”
The eldest daughter of Hollywood legends Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh, Kelly was born in 1956 and grew up immersed in the entertainment industry. She went on to build her own career both in front of and behind the camera.
Her acting roles included appearances in films like Trading Places and The Devil’s Daughter, along with television work on shows such as Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, The Equalizer, The Sentinel, and Judging Amy. Behind the scenes, she contributed to productions including Freaky Friday, Christmas with the Kranks, and You Again, often collaborating closely with her sister.
Those who knew Kelly remembered her warmth, generosity, and vibrant spirit. Jamie Lee Curtis’s tribute painted a picture of a woman who loved baking, holiday traditions, and spending time with family—qualities that defined her life far beyond her Hollywood work.
Kelly is survived by her husband, playwright and producer Scott Morfee, and her extended family. Her death marks another significant loss for one of cinema’s most storied acting families.
