Beloved Actress Teri Garr Dies After MS Battle

A Comedic Legend Gone

Teri Garr, beloved for her comedic roles, passed away at 79 from multiple sclerosis, surrounded by family at her Los Angeles home. Over the years, she faced various health challenges and stayed strong through them all.

In 2007, Garr underwent surgery to repair an aneurysm, showing her resilience in the face of illness. Her courage and humor left a lasting impact on fans and Hollywood alike.

Strength Through Struggles

Teri Garr was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in the early 1980s and later suffered a ruptured brain aneurysm that left her in a coma for a week. Despite these challenges, she continued to work in the entertainment industry, demonstrating incredible resilience and determination.

Garr became a National Ambassador for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and served as the National Chair for the Society’s Women Against MS program (WAMS). In November 2005, she was honored as the society’s Ambassador of the Year for her dedication to raising awareness and supporting those affected by MS.

Teri Garr’s Iconic Role In Young Frankenstein

Teri Garr’s role in Young Frankenstein is a standout example of comedic brilliance. As Inga, the spirited lab assistant, she not only brought charm and wit to the character but also played a crucial role in the film’s storyline, making Inga an unforgettable figure in comedy.

Throughout the film, Garr expertly blended naiveté with intelligence, becoming an essential part of Dr. Frederick Frankenstein’s (Gene Wilder) adventures. Her fearless attitude toward the bizarre lab antics allowed audiences to connect with her, enhancing the overall experience.

Oscar-nominated role in Tootsie

Teri Garr’s performance in the 1982 film Tootsie is one of her most celebrated roles. As Sandy, an ambitious actress caught up in the comedic chaos with Michael Dorsey (Dustin Hoffman), Garr’s chemistry and comedic timing played a key role in the film’s success.

Her portrayal not only cemented her status as a leading actress but also highlighted her talent for tackling complex characters with grace and humor. Tootsie remains a classic, appreciated by new generations for its wit and memorable performances.

Guest Appearance in F.R.I.E.N.D.S

Who doesn’t know about the iconic sitcom Friends , where Teri Garr made a memorable appearance as Phoebe Abbott Sr., the mother of Lisa Kudrow’s beloved character, Phoebe Buffay?

In the Season 3 finale, “The One at the Beach,” Phoebe reconnects with her estranged birth mother during a group vacation. Garr’s role added depth and warmth to the series, highlighting the complexities of family and relationships.

Versatile character in Close Encounter of the Third Kind

In the 1977 sci-fi classic, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, produced by Columbia Pictures, Teri Garr played Ronnie Neary, the wife of Roy Neary. Her character deals with the emotional chaos caused by her husband’s obsession with UFOs and his transformation after a close encounter.

As a grounding presence in the story, Ronnie represents those left behind while their loved ones chase the unknown. Teri Garr’s performance brings depth to the film, making her portrayal a standout in this iconic story.

Movie Roles

Teri Garr’s career includes standout performances in a variety of films. She was featured in the 1974 thriller The Conversation and starred in Carl Reiner’s comedy Oh, God! Sci-Fi Movie The Black Stallion (1979), as well as in musical drama One from the Heart (1982), Mr. Mom (1983), and Firstborn (1984).

Garr also made her mark in the black comedy After Hours (1985) and went on to star in Let It Ride (1989), Dumb and Dumber (1994), Prêt-à-Porter (1994), Michael (1996), and Ghost World (2001). Her versatility as an actress has allowed her to shine in both comedic and dramatic roles.

Some TV Work

Teri Garr’s television career spans several decades and highlights her talent in various roles. She gained early recognition with guest spots on popular shows like The Bob Newhart Show , where her comedic timing really stood out.

Her charm also shined in appearances on The Muppet Show , The Odd Couple , Maude , Barnaby Jones , and Paul Sand in Friends and Lovers . Garr hosted Saturday Night Live and was a familiar face on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson , appearing over 40 times.

Nominations and Awards

Teri Garr won the Best Acting by an Ensemble award at the National Board of Review in 1994 for her role in Prêt-à-Porter (Ready to Wear). She received multiple nominations for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in Tootsie at the Academy Awards, BAFTA Awards, and the National Society of Film Critics.

Garr was also recognized for her roles in Close Encounters of the Third Kind , earning a Saturn Award nomination in 1978, and Faerie Tale Theatre , for which she received a CableACE Award nomination in 1983.

Crafting a Career

After moving to New York City, Teri Garr studied at the Actors Studio and the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute. During her senior year, she auditioned for the Los Angeles road company production of West Side Story , where she met David Winters, a key figure in her early career.

Winters became her friend, dance teacher, and mentor, casting her in many of his early films and projects. This partnership helped Garr gain valuable experience and laid the groundwork for her successful acting career.

A Tribute to the Iconic Teri Garr

With a remarkable career spanning over 50 years in Hollywood, Teri Garr’s passing has sparked an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from friends, fans, and collaborators alike. Notable figures like Michael Keaton, Mel Brooks, and Lisa Kudrow have all shared their memories and admiration for the beloved actress.

Her iconic roles not only left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry but also resonated deeply with her devoted fans. As tributes continue to pour in, it’s evident that Teri Garr’s legacy will endure, reminding us all of the joy and laughter she shared throughout her life.

Mel Brooks Reflects on Teri Garr’s Legacy

Mel Brooks, who directed Teri Garr in Young Frankenstein , shared a heartfelt tribute on social media. “I’m so sorry to hear about Teri Garr’s passing,” he wrote, highlighting her immense talent and humor.

Brooks fondly recalled how her lively spirit made the set a joy to work on, noting, “Her ‘German’ accent had us all in stitches!” He emphasized that she would be greatly missed, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who had the pleasure of working with her.

A Farewell from Michael Keaton to His Mr. Mom Co-Star

Michael Keaton is honoring his comedic partner, Teri Garr, following her passing. In an emotional Instagram tribute, he shared memories from their time together in the 1983 film Mr. Mom.

“This is a day I feared,” Keaton wrote alongside the movie poster. He praised Garr not only as an actress and comedian but also as a wonderful person. “Go back and watch her work—she was incredible! RIP, girl.”

Dustin Hoffman Reflects on the Joy of Working with Teri Garr

Dustin Hoffman reflected on his time working with Teri Garr in Tootsie , praising her unique talent and kind spirit. In a statement to Entertainment Weekly , he said, “Teri was brilliant and singular in all she did, and she had a heart of gold.”

Hoffman emphasized that collaborating with her was one of the great highlights of his career. “There was no one like her,” he added, underscoring the deep admiration he held for his talented co-star.

Lisa Kudrow Honors Her On-Screen Mom, Teri Garr

Friends star Lisa Kudrow shared heartfelt words about her relationship with Teri Garr. Kudrow remembered Garr, who played her estranged birth mother on the show, as a “comedic acting genius” and a major influence on her career.

In her statement, Kudrow expressed how “lucky and grateful” she felt to have worked with Garr. She emphasized that many others feel the same way, highlighting the lasting impact Garr had on the world of comedy.

Director Paul Feig’s response

Garr’s fellow entertainers, including director Paul Feig and Monkees member Micky Dolenz, shared their tributes on social media. Feig, who directed Garr in Unaccompanied Minors , described her passing as “devastating.”

“Teri was a legend. So funny, beautiful, and kind,” he wrote. “Working with her was everything I hoped for. She was truly one of my comedy heroes, and this is such a profound loss.”

Marilu Henner Remembers Teri Garr as “My Idol”

Marilu Henner shared her admiration for Teri Garr, recalling how she had always looked up to her. “Teri Garr was always my idol,” Henner wrote on social media, reflecting on Garr’s incredible talent.

She reminisced about Garr’s performance alongside her first husband, Frederic Forrest, in One From the Heart , saying, “I was in awe of her dramatic chops, her comedic ease, and her big heart!” Henner added that no matter the struggles, Garr always brought joy and laughter whenever they met.

To learn more about the heartbreaking events that have shaped Hollywood this year, check out Tragic Losses in Hollywood This Year .

Jon Cryer and Hollywood Stars Celebrate Teri Garr’s Life

Jon Cryer paid tribute to Teri Garr’s film legacy in a heartfelt post, sharing his favorite movies featuring her: “My top three Teri Garr films: Oh God! , Close Encounters of the Third Kind , and Tootsie. Treat yourself! #RIPTeriGarr.”

Many other celebrities, including Michael McKean, producer Gale Ann Hurd, and Richard Dreyfuss, also honored Garr with their own touching tributes, celebrating her remarkable contributions to cinema.

Learn more about her life and legacy in Remembering Teri Garr: The Legend .