Teri Garr, the acclaimed actress known for her memorable roles in Tootsie and Young Frankenstein, has died at the age of 79.
Garr, who revealed her battle with multiple sclerosis in 2002, passed away surrounded by family and friends, according to her publicist.
Born in Ohio in 1944, Garr’s early life was steeped in show business, with both parents working in the industry—her father as a vaudeville performer and her mother as a Rockette and costume designer.
After moving to Los Angeles, she pursued a career in acting, studying at the Actors Studio and the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute.
Garr’s career began with dancing roles in several Elvis Presley films, but she soon transitioned to acting, landing her first speaking role in the 1968 film Head.
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She gained recognition with her performance in Young Frankenstein (1974), where she played Inga, and continued to impress audiences with her role in Tootsie (1982), earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
Throughout her career, Garr appeared in over 140 film and television projects, showcasing her talent in both comedic and dramatic roles.
Notable films include Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Mr. Mom, and After Hours.
On television, she made memorable appearances on shows such as “MASH”, “The Bob Newhart Show”, and even guest-starred as Phoebe’s birth mother on “Friends”.
Despite her success, Garr faced challenges due to her health condition.
She became a national ambassador for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and used her platform to raise awareness about the disease.
Garr is survived by her daughter, Molly O’Neil, and grandson, Tyryn.
Her legacy as a talented actress and advocate for those with MS will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.
