Teri Garr, an Oscar-nominated actress celebrated for her roles in beloved classics like Young Frankenstein, Tootsie, and Mr. Mom, has passed away at the age of 79. Garr’s manager, Marc Gurvitz, confirmed her passing on Tuesday in Los Angeles. Known for her vivacious energy and comedic charm, Garr captivated audiences throughout a career spanning five decades. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) over 20 years ago, she openly discussed her condition to raise awareness and encourage others facing similar challenges.
In a 2002 interview, Garr spoke candidly about her MS diagnosis, sharing that she initially endured years of unexplained symptoms and consultations with multiple doctors before discovering the cause. Despite the diagnosis, Garr maintained her signature humor and resilience. “I don’t see any profit in being down,” she reflected, “I’ve always been able to focus on what I am—talented and smart—and that’s how I’ve lived my life.”
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From Dance Floors to Hollywood Sets
Born into a family with a Broadway performer father and a mother who was a Rockette, Garr was drawn to the performing arts early on. She trained in dance during her youth and began auditioning for roles shortly after graduating from high school in Los Angeles. Her early work included dancing and background roles in films such as Viva Las Vegas with Elvis Presley, where she quickly realized her aspirations extended beyond the chorus line. “I didn’t study all those years to be in the back and get no money,” she once remarked, capturing her drive to be center stage.
The 1970s marked the beginning of Garr’s journey to stardom. She appeared on popular television shows like The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour, The New Dick Van Dyke Show, and The Odd Couple. However, it was her transition to film that cemented her as a comedic force.
Breakthrough Roles and an Unforgettable Legacy
In 1974, Garr gained widespread attention with her role as Inga in Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein, where her comedic timing and zany charm lit up the screen. Her performance opened doors to more iconic roles, including her portrayal of Ronnie Neary in Steven Spielberg’s sci-fi hit Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977) and her role as a struggling actress in Tootsie, where she starred alongside Dustin Hoffman. Her role in Tootsie earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress, a moment she fondly recalled as validation from the Academy for her comedic talent.
“Teri was brilliant and singular in all she did, and had a heart of gold.” Dustin Hoffman
In 1983, Garr joined Michael Keaton in Mr. Mom, bringing her charm to the role of a career-driven mother, a part that challenged stereotypes and reinforced her ability to portray multidimensional female characters. Reflecting on her portrayal of complex women, Garr noted that she preferred roles where women relied on “their brains or their wit” rather than simply being objectified, a testament to her progressive views on gender roles in Hollywood.
A Heartfelt Farewell from Friends and Fans
Garr’s passing was met with heartfelt tributes from her friends and collaborators. Keaton, her Mr. Mom co-star, shared on Instagram, “Forget about how great she was as an actress and comedienne; she was a wonderful woman…not just great to work with but great to be around.”
Mel Brooks, who directed her in Young Frankenstein, wrote, “She was so talented and so funny. Her humor and lively spirit made the set a pleasure. Her ‘German’ accent had us all in stitches!”
Lisa Kudrow, who shared the screen with Garr in Friends where Garr portrayed the quirky mother of Kudrow’s character Phoebe Buffay, called her a “comedic acting genius” and said Garr was a major influence on her own career. Many other Hollywood figures, including David Letterman, Steve Martin, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Marilu Henner, paid tribute to Garr’s impact and influence in both comedy and film.
An Enduring Advocate and Optimist
Even while managing her MS diagnosis, Garr continued to work and inspire others. She made appearances in Felicity, ER, and voiced characters in animated series like Batman Beyond and What’s New, Scooby-Doo?. Throughout her life, Garr was a dedicated advocate for people with MS, using her platform to spread hope and positivity. In an interview, she shared, “Maybe it has to do with my show-business background. You’re always being told you’re not right for something…but I always reminded myself of what I was good at.”
A Legacy of Laughter and Strength
Teri Garr’s final television appearance was in 2011, closing a career filled with memorable characters and heartfelt performances. She leaves behind a legacy that goes beyond her roles, inspiring those who face adversity to approach life with courage and humor. Her comedic timing, unmistakable voice, and radiant spirit have left a lasting impact on Hollywood and the countless fans who admired her. Through it all, she stayed true to her craft and her values, leaving an indelible mark on the world of film and comedy.
