Tim Curry, the celebrated actor whose career has spanned decades across stage and screen, recently made a special appearance at the Academy's Margaret Herrick Library, where he explored treasured archives dedicated to the 1985 cult classic film Clue. At 79, Curry brought his signature wit to the event, surprising attendees with never-before-heard anecdotes that have remained buried in Hollywood history for nearly four decades.
The visit saw Curry exploring original memorabilia and production notes from the beloved murder-mystery comedy. Archivist Louise Hilton guided him through the collection, prompting personal stories that aligned with preserved documents, creating a vivid picture of the film's challenging production.
## The Physical Demands That Pushed Curry to His Limits
One of the most striking disclosures centered around the extraordinary physical demands placed on Curry during filming. Original paperwork from July 25, 1985, revealed the actor was rushed to the hospital after wrapping a grueling scene, with doctors diagnosing dangerously high blood pressure.
Curry recounted the exhausting experience with characteristic humor. "That was the day that we shot me running around, demonstrating each murder," he disclosed, referring to the famous sequence where his character, Wadsworth the butler, sprints through the mansion, frantically reenacting how the killer could have committed each crime undetected.
This demanding scene required Curry to maintain high-energy performance for over 40 minutes of continuous running. The actor described himself as "verklempt" after the ordeal, a term meaning overwhelmed with emotion. This revelation highlights Curry's unwavering commitment to his craft, demonstrating that his pursuit of comedic excellence transcended physical limitations.
## The Unreleased Fourth Ending That Never Saw Theaters
Perhaps the most jaw-dropping revelation was the existence of a fourth ending that was filmed but deliberately withheld from release. While fans have long known about the film's innovative three-ending structure, the discovery of a fourth conclusion adds a fascinating new layer to Clue's legacy.
Archival documents confirmed this additional ending featured Wadsworth as the sole perpetrator of all murders—a twist that would have fundamentally altered the narrative. Curry confirmed this was his personal favorite among all filmed endings. "That was my favorite," he stated, laughing at the bold concept.
Producers ultimately scrapped this version, believing it would be too obvious for audiences and would undermine the film's whodunit premise. The three endings that eventually made it to theaters were chosen to preserve the genuine mystery that has kept audiences guessing for generations. While Curry expressed preference for the more daring conclusion, he showed no resentment toward the producers' artistic judgment.
## Forgotten Casting What-Ifs That Could Have Changed Everything
The archive visit also unearthed shocking casting revelations that suggest Clue could have been dramatically different. For the first time, Curry learned he was originally considered for Mr. Green, not the beloved butler Wadsworth.
This alternate scenario would have created a ripple effect. Archival documents revealed that with Curry as Mr. Green, Carrie Fisher would have played Miss Scarlett, while Lesley Ann Warren would have portrayed Mrs. White. This completely different lineup would have fundamentally altered the film's chemistry.
Curry's genuine surprise underscored how easily Hollywood history can be forgotten. Director Jonathan Lynn ultimately cast Curry as Wadsworth, a choice instrumental in shaping the film's enduring appeal. The butler's manic energy and physical comedy became defining elements of Clue's success.
## Preserving Cinema History Through Archival Work
The Margaret Herrick Library's Clue collection serves as a crucial repository of cinematic history. The preserved documents offer invaluable insights into decision-making processes that shape classic films.
Curry's anecdotes provided living validation to these records, creating a rare convergence of official documentation and firsthand testimony. This synergy ensures future generations can understand not just what happened during production, but why certain creative choices were made.
The library's dedication to maintaining these priceless artifacts showcases the complex production history behind Clue. From health crises to casting overhauls to multiple endings, the archives reveal a film constantly evolving until its final cut.
## Legacy and Impact on Generations of Fans
These revelations have sent ripples through the fan community, reigniting interest in a film that has remained culturally relevant for nearly 40 years. The existence of a fourth ending has sparked speculation about whether this unreleased footage will ever emerge.
For Curry, the visit was a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with a pivotal career moment. His willingness to share these stories demonstrates the deep affection he still holds for the project and its fans.
The decision to reject the Wadsworth-as-killer ending, while disappointing to Curry, ultimately contributed to Clue's lasting mystery. The film's unique structure—offering multiple solutions to the same puzzle—has inspired countless discussions and analyses. This interactive quality helped transform Clue from a simple comedy into a participatory experience that audiences return to repeatedly.
As news of these untold secrets spreads, the film's legacy only grows richer. The combination of Curry's revelations and the Academy's preservation work ensures Clue will continue to be appreciated not just as entertainment, but as a fascinating case study in creative decision-making and casting alchemy.
The archive visit reminds us that behind every beloved film lies a trove of untold stories. Thanks to institutions like the Margaret Herrick Library and artists like Tim Curry willing to revisit their past, these stories can finally emerge, giving fans new reasons to fall in love with classic cinema.