Tim Curry, renowned for his role as Pennywise in the 1990 adaptation of It, has publicly shared that he suffers from coulrophobia, a fear of clowns.
This phobia affected him deeply during filming, leading to specific conditions in his contract. It was stipulated that there should be no mirrors or reflective surfaces on set during scenes involving him, to prevent any accidental exposure to his fear.
Despite his terrifying portrayal of Pennywise, Curry’s personal struggle with coulrophobia highlights the contrast between his on-screen villainy and his real-life anxieties. His openness about this condition has helped raise awareness about phobias and the challenges actors may face behind the scenes.
