Jamie Lee Curtis Pays Emotional Tribute Following Her Sister’s Death

Jamie Lee Curtis is mourning the death of her older sister, Kelly Curtis, and reflecting on the close bond they rebuilt over the years. The Oscar-winning actress shared an emotional tribute on social media over the weekend, posting family photos and writing about their relationship, which was shaped by childhood closeness, sibling rivalry, periods of distance, and ultimately a lasting reconnection. Kelly Curtis was 69.

In her Instagram post, Jamie Lee Curtis recalled one especially meaningful memory: the evening before her wedding in 1984, when Kelly stayed with her as maid of honor. She said the sisters were close as children but also competed for the attention and love of their divorced parents. Despite living apart for many years, Kelly returned for the wedding and remained a steady presence in Jamie Lee’s life after that.

Curtis said her sister gradually became part of her daily and family life, even working for her at one point when she was between jobs. She described Kelly as woven into the family structure and said she was comforted by the belief that her sister is now at peace. Her message underscored both the grief of the loss and the long history the sisters shared.

Earlier the same day, Jamie Lee Curtis first announced Kelly’s death with a black-and-white photo and a message honoring her life. She said Kelly died at home, in nature, and at peace. Curtis called her older sister her first friend and lifelong confidant, describing her as beautiful, talented, generous, curious, and outspoken. She also remembered Kelly’s holiday cookie tradition and noted the Hungarian blessing she often used to sign off messages.

Kelly Curtis also had a career in entertainment, appearing in projects including The Sentinel, Magic Sticks, and The Devil’s Daughter, while also working behind the scenes in Hollywood. Although Jamie Lee Curtis became the better-known star, Kelly was part of a famous acting family as the daughter of Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh and the sister of Jamie Lee Curtis.

No official cause of death has been publicly disclosed. The news prompted condolences from fans and celebrities, including Jennifer Garner, Rita Ora, Julianne Hough, Sharon Stone, Octavia Spencer, Rita Wilson, and Debi Mazar, who left supportive messages for Curtis online.

Kelly Curtis is survived by her husband, Scott Morfee.