Jamie Lee Curtis Mourns Sister Kelly’s Death, Calls Her “My First Friend and Lifelong Confidant”
Jamie Lee Curtis shared heartbreaking news on Instagram that her older sister, actress Kelly Lee Curtis, died at her home in California on Saturday morning. She was 69. In her tribute, Jamie described Kelly as her first friend, lifelong confidant, and a talented actress with a striking presence, while also remembering her love of family, nature, music, travel, thrifting, Facebook, and Pokémon Go. She noted that Kelly was proud of her Danish roots and Hungarian Jewish ancestry and called her a devoted American patriot.
Jamie’s post also highlighted Kelly’s personality and the small details that made her memorable, including her generous spirit, strong opinions, endless curiosity, distinctive style, and the Christmas almond cookies that earned her the nickname “Auntie Cookie.” She ended the message with the Hungarian blessing “Isten Veled,” meaning “God is with you,” and said goodbye to her sister with deep affection.
No cause of death has been disclosed. Kelly Curtis, like her famous younger sister, followed in the footsteps of their parents, Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh, and built a career in acting. She made her film debut in 1958 in The Vikings, appearing alongside her parents. She later worked with Jamie in the 1983 film Trading Places and went on to appear in Magic Sticks and The Devil’s Daughter. Her television credits included roles on The Equalizer, Hunter, Silk Stalkings, and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.
Jamie Lee Curtis’s message reflected both grief and gratitude as she honored a sister who was not only family, but also a lifelong companion and source of support. Fans and followers have expressed sympathy for the Curtis family following the news.
