Beloved actress Teri Garr, known for her roles in “Young Frankenstein” and “Tootsie,” has passed away at 79 after a long battle with multiple sclerosis.
At a Glance
- Teri Garr died at age 79 in Los Angeles after battling multiple sclerosis
- She was best known for her roles in “Young Frankenstein” and “Tootsie”
- Garr earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in “Tootsie” (1982)
- She is survived by her daughter, Molly O’Neil, and grandson, Tyryn
- Garr revealed her MS diagnosis in 2002 and retired from acting in 2011
A Career Spanning Decades
Teri Garr’s remarkable journey in the entertainment industry began in the 1960s when she started as a go-go dancer and appeared in six Elvis Presley projects. Born on December 11, 1944, in Lakewood, Ohio, Garr pursued acting in Los Angeles and New York, landing her first speaking role in the 1968 film “Head.” Her early television appearances included roles in iconic shows such as “Star Trek,” “The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour,” and “The New Dick Van Dyke Show.”
Garr’s breakthrough came in 1974 with her memorable role in Mel Brooks’ comedy classic “Young Frankenstein.” This performance catapulted her to stardom and led to roles in other notable films such as “The Conversation” (1974) and Steven Spielberg’s “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” (1977).
Teri Garr has sadly passed away at the age of 79. pic.twitter.com/1QklcSohSl
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) October 29, 2024
Oscar Nomination and Continued Success
The 1980s brought even greater success for Garr, with her starring role in “Tootsie” (1982) earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Reflecting on this achievement, Garr once said:
“I was proud,” Garr reflected. “The academy not only knew I existed, they thought I was good!”
Her talent and versatility were further showcased in films like “The Escape Artist,” “Mr. Mom,” “After Hours,” and “A Simple Wish.” Garr’s impact extended to television as well, with memorable appearances on “Friends” as Phoebe Abbot and three hosting stints on “Saturday Night Live.”
Health Challenges and Advocacy
In 2002, Teri Garr publicly revealed her battle with multiple sclerosis, a diagnosis she had received years earlier. Initially hesitant to disclose her condition, Garr eventually became an advocate for MS awareness. She explained her decision, saying:
“I really didn’t think there was any reason to come out and say anything about it,” Garr shared, highlighting her initial reluctance to discuss her health publicly.
Despite facing significant health challenges, including a brain aneurysm in 2006, Garr displayed remarkable resilience. She recovered and continued to work until her retirement from acting in 2011, with her final role in the TV film “How To Marry a Billionaire.”
Legacy and Personal Life
Teri Garr’s contributions to American entertainment span five decades, leaving an indelible mark on both film and television. Her ability to transition from dancer to acclaimed actress earned her respect across Hollywood and endeared her to audiences worldwide.
Garr was married to John O’Neil from 1993 to 1996, with whom she had her daughter Molly. She is survived by Molly O’Neil and her grandson, Tyryn, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, talent, and perseverance that will continue to inspire future generations of performers and fans alike.
Teri Garr, the Oscar-nominated actress known for her adorable flightiness in such films as 'Tootsie' and 'Young Frankenstein,' before her career was derailed by multiple sclerosis, has died. She was 79 https://t.co/jcjImLJqRA pic.twitter.com/FHrIeK7WkH
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) October 29, 2024
