The joke that kept Rocky Horror fans waiting for five years

Tim Curry as Dr Frank N’ Furter in the 1975 cult classic The Rocky Horror Show (REX)

Fans of the cult classic The Rocky Horror Picture Show got a treat when a Twitter user pulled off a joke especially for their amusement. Over 48,000 people showed their appreciation by retweeting the gag, after they had been made to wait an impressive five years for the punchline.

Originally produced as a stage musical at the Royal Court Theatre, the 1975 film version of The Rocky Horror Show did not do well at the box office after its release. It gathered a cult following, though, after midnight screenings in New York proved extremely popular. Those who arrived in costume would get in for free, which started the tradition of fancy dress showings of the film. Soon after, the film would almost always be accompanied by an on-stage 'shadowcast'.

Now, you shouldn't expect to get away with going to a screening without donning the full attire and singing along to all the songs, as well as throwing the odd hot dog or piece of toast at the screen.

If you have partaken in these cult-like rituals, or just watched the film in the safety of your own home, you will be able to appreciate Twitter user ‘Frank Furter's' little prank. The anonymous user, named after the character Dr Frank N’ Furter played by Tim Curry, posted three tweets as long ago as 2009. All three tweets were lyrics from the much-loved song Sweet Transvestite:

Then 'Frank Furter' was silent. For five years. Until finally....

A simple stunt, but it deserves a giggle. According to Stephen Fry, it's "the greatest Twitter joke of all time." It's certainly a good excuse to indulge in the original again...