Actress Shares Emotional Tribute

Actress Jamie Lee Curtis has announced the death of her older sister, Kelly Lee Curtis, who passed away peacefully at her California home on May 30. She was 69.

In a heartfelt social media tribute, Jamie described Kelly as her “first friend and lifelong confidant,” remembering her not only as a beloved sister but also as a talented actress and devoted family member.

A Life Filled With Creativity and Passion

Kelly Lee Curtis was the eldest daughter of Hollywood legends Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh. Born in Santa Monica, California, she was introduced to the entertainment world at an early age and appeared in her first film as a child.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Kelly built a steady acting career with appearances in popular television series, including The Equalizer, Hunter, Silk Stalkings, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, and The Sentinel. She also worked behind the scenes and assisted her sister on several film projects.

Remembered By Family and Friends

In her tribute, Jamie celebrated Kelly’s love of family, travel, music, nature, and collecting treasures through thrift shopping. She also recalled her sister’s famous Christmas cookies, a tradition that earned her the affectionate nickname “Auntie Cookie.”

Jamie described Kelly as someone known for her generosity, curiosity, strong opinions, and unique sense of style. The actress said those qualities left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

A Hollywood Family Legacy

Kelly and Jamie were the only children of Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh together, though both actors had children from other marriages. The Curtis family has long been associated with Hollywood, spanning multiple generations of performers and artists.

While Kelly never sought the same level of fame as some members of her family, she remained a respected figure in the entertainment industry and maintained close relationships with those she loved.

Final Farewell

Concluding her tribute, Jamie referenced a traditional Hungarian blessing often used by her sister: “Isten Veled,” meaning “God is with you.”

Kelly Lee Curtis is survived by her husband, Scott Morfee. Her family has not publicly disclosed a cause of death.

Friends, colleagues, and fans have since shared messages of support as the Curtis family mourns the loss of a beloved sister, wife, and actress.