Beloved actress and comedy legend Teri Garr, best known for her iconic roles in *Young Frankenstein* and *Tootsie*, has passed away at age 79. Her publicist, Heidi Schaeffer, confirmed her death on Tuesday morning in Los Angeles after Garr’s lengthy, courageous battle with multiple sclerosis (MS), a struggle she faced publicly and with remarkable resilience.
Garr leaves behind her daughter, Molly O’Neil, and her 6-year-old grandson, Tyryn, who survive a woman who brought boundless energy, wit, and spirit to Hollywood. Born in Lakewood, Ohio, on December 11, 1944, Garr moved to Los Angeles as a young woman with dreams of making it big. She began her career humbly as a dancer, even landing gigs in six Elvis Presley films in the 1960s. But Garr’s tenacity and comedic flair soon earned her a place in the spotlight, and her journey from background dancer to leading comedic actress embodies the American dream.
Her breakthrough role came in Mel Brooks’ 1974 hit *Young Frankenstein*, where she stole scenes as the quirky, endearing Inga. That same year, she starred in Francis Ford Coppola’s *The Conversation*, solidifying her status as a versatile and compelling actress. Not one to be confined by genre, Garr shined in Steven Spielberg’s 1977 sci-fi classic *Close Encounters of the Third Kind*, demonstrating her ability to adapt and thrive in roles both comedic and dramatic.
However, her defining moment came with the 1982 film *Tootsie*, where her portrayal of the vulnerable yet determined Sandy Lester earned her an Academy Award nomination. Reflecting on this milestone in her 2005 memoir, *Speedbumps*, Garr wrote with humor, “The Academy not only knew I existed; they thought I was good!” Garr’s signature mix of humility and sharp wit made her beloved by fans and respected by peers.
Beyond the silver screen, Garr made her mark on television, from recurring roles in popular series like *Friends* to hosting *Saturday Night Live* multiple times. Her appearances on *The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson* and *Late Night with David Letterman* highlighted her quick comedic timing and approachable charm.
While her career flourished, Garr fought a private battle with MS, which she eventually made public in 2002. Rather than dwelling on her struggles, Garr used her condition to inspire others, saying in a 2002 interview with Larry King, “If I can just help people to feel better.” Her transparency helped shine a light on the illness and encouraged others facing similar battles to persevere.
Tragedy struck again in 2006 when Garr suffered a brain aneurysm, leaving her in a coma for a week. True to form, she rallied, recovered, and even returned to acting briefly before retiring in 2011. Her career spanned nearly five decades, a testament to her dedication, talent, and the infectious charm that kept fans rooting for her.
Garr’s contributions to film and television extended beyond mere performances; she brought joy, authenticity, and a sense of humor that connected with audiences of all ages. A true American icon, her work will be celebrated for generations to come, and her personal strength in the face of adversity stands as a beacon of resilience.
As Hollywood and her fans mourn this loss, we’re reminded of the humor, grace, and grit she embodied throughout her career. Teri Garr wasn’t just a great actress; she was a fighter and a source of inspiration, leaving behind a legacy as enduring as the films and characters she brought to life.
