Skyrim Grandma Shirley Curry Retires From Elder Scrolls Videos: “I’m Tired, I’m Not Having Fun Anymore”

If you’ve been part of the Elder Scrolls community, you already know Shirley Curry—the internet’s beloved “Skyrim Grandma.” At 89 years old, she has officially announced her retirement from uploading Skyrim and Elder Scrolls content, and honestly, it feels like the end of a legendary chapter in gaming history.

In her latest YouTube upload titled “My Goodbye to Skyrim,” Shirley candidly explained why she’s stepping away after more than a decade of adventuring through Tamriel. Her words hit hard: “I’m tired, I’m not having any fun with it anymore.” For a creator who poured her heart into storytelling, exploring every nook of Skyrim, and role-playing with new characters, this wasn’t just another gaming update—it was a farewell note to millions of fans who grew up (or grew older) watching her.

Who Is Skyrim Grandma and Why Does She Matter?

Shirley Curry isn’t just a YouTuber. She’s a cultural phenomenon. Back in 2015, when Let’s Play videos were already flooding YouTube, Shirley stood out with her calming narration, thoughtful playstyle, and genuine love for Skyrim. She built a community of over 1 million subscribers, most of whom fondly called her “Grandma.”

What made her special wasn’t flashy editing or speed runs—it was her warmth. She treated viewers like family, turning Skyrim’s vast open world into bedtime stories for gamers. When Bethesda announced they’d include her as an NPC in The Elder Scrolls VI, it felt like the ultimate tribute. And let’s be real—you don’t get honored by Bethesda unless you’ve left an unshakable mark on the Elder Scrolls community.

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Why Shirley Curry Is Retiring From Skyrim

So why step away now? Shirley explained that every time she tried to create fresh ways to enjoy Skyrim, she found herself bored after just a few episodes. “I may make one or two or three with a new character and then I’m bored again,” she admitted.

Another reason? Audience shift. Over the years, her channel drew younger fans who left short comments like “Hi Grandma, I love you”—sweet but not the kind of feedback she was hoping for. She missed meaningful discussions about quests, mods, and storytelling. As she put it, “That isn’t what I’m spending my time making and uploading videos for.”

It’s not the first time she’s announced retirement. In fact, she briefly stepped back last year only to return with new energy, even diving into Oblivion Remastered for the first time. But this time, the message feels final. There’s no cliffhanger or tease—it’s clear she wants to close this chapter.

What Happens Next for Skyrim Grandma?

Now here’s the good news: Shirley isn’t disappearing. She’s shifting gears. Instead of Skyrim playthroughs, she plans to keep posting vlogs—this time aimed at older audiences, including teens and adults who want more thoughtful discussions. She also runs a Bible study YouTube channel, which she encouraged fans to check out if they’d like to stay connected.

And for those who can’t imagine Skyrim without her? Don’t forget about the fan-made Skyrim mod that brings Shirley into the game as a companion character. You can literally travel Tamriel with Skyrim Grandma by your side—how amazing is that?

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How the Community Is Reacting

As soon as Shirley’s video went live, the comments section filled with a wave of love and respect. Long-time fans thanked her for shaping their gaming journeys, while new viewers expressed admiration for how she proved that age is never a barrier in gaming. Many pointed out that her departure feels like losing a guide who made Skyrim’s world feel warmer and more human.

For a community that often revolves around high-speed content and competitive gameplay, Shirley brought something rare: patience and storytelling. Watching her wander through Whiterun or pause to appreciate the scenery wasn’t just content—it was comfort. And that’s exactly why players across generations are calling this the end of an era.

The Legacy of Skyrim Grandma

Shirley Curry’s story is much bigger than just YouTube views. She redefined what it means to be a gaming creator. At nearly 90 years old, she built a platform that younger creators dream about. Her inclusion as a character in The Elder Scrolls VI (whenever Bethesda decides to release it) cements her status as more than just a fan—she’s part of Elder Scrolls history itself.

Even beyond Bethesda, Shirley opened the door for discussions about inclusivity in gaming. She showed the world that you don’t need to fit a “gamer stereotype” to be loved by millions. Whether you’re 15 or 85, her journey proves that the love of games connects us all.

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What This Means for the Elder Scrolls Community

For Skyrim fans, this retirement might feel bittersweet, but Shirley’s influence isn’t going away anytime soon. Thanks to the fan-made mod that immortalizes her in Skyrim, players can still bring her along on adventures. Plus, with her promise to stay active through vlogs and other channels, the bond she built with her core audience will continue in a more personal way.

Most importantly, her story serves as inspiration for creators who feel pressure to keep producing even when it stops being fun. Shirley reminds us that gaming should always be about joy, not obligation.

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Final Thoughts

Shirley Curry may have hung up her adventurer’s cloak, but her legacy will never fade. For nearly a decade, she was more than “just another Skyrim YouTuber.” She was the internet’s grandmother, a gentle guide through Tamriel, and a reminder that passion—not age—defines a true gamer.

As she steps into a well-earned retirement from Skyrim content, the Elder Scrolls community will carry her warmth, humor, and storytelling spirit forward. Whether through mods, vlogs, or her appearance in The Elder Scrolls VI, Shirley Curry will always be Skyrim’s Grandma.

And honestly? That’s a title no one else can ever claim.