Teri Garr, Oscar-Nominated Actress from 'Young Frankenstein' and 'Tootsie,' Dies at 79
- DailyBuzzReports
- Oct 29, 2024
- 2 min read
Teri Garr, the acclaimed actress known for her roles in films like Young Frankenstein, Tootsie, and Mr. Mom, has died at the age of 79. Her passing was confirmed by her manager, Marc Gurvitz, who noted that she had been battling multiple sclerosis for over twenty years. Garr's death occurred in Los Angeles, where she had spent much of her career.
Born to a Broadway performer and a Rockette, Garr developed a passion for dance early on and began auditioning shortly after high school in Los Angeles. Her early career included dancing and appearing as an extra in films, including Elvis Presley’s Viva Las Vegas. Her determination to step into the spotlight led to her becoming a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
The 1970s marked a significant turning point for Garr, with notable appearances on television shows such as The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour and The Bob Newhart Show. Her breakout role came in 1974 with Mel Brooks’ comedy Young Frankenstein, where she played Inga alongside Gene Wilder. This role helped establish her as a talented comedic actress.
In 1977, Garr starred in Steven Spielberg’s Close Encounters of the Third Kind, portraying Ronnie Neary, a wife grappling with her husband's alien obsession. Her performance in Tootsie earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress in 1983, affirming her place in Hollywood. In her memoir, she expressed pride in this recognition, highlighting her journey in the industry.
Garr's career continued into the 1990s and 2000s, featuring roles in Good & Evil, Felicity, and Friends, where she played the mother of Lisa Kudrow’s Phoebe Buffay. She also ventured into voice acting, lending her talents to animated series like Batman Beyond and What’s New, Scooby Doo? Her last on-screen credit was in 2011 with How to Marry a Billionaire.
Throughout her life, Garr was a vocal advocate for those living with multiple sclerosis. She shared her diagnosis publicly in 2002, aiming to raise awareness and provide hope to others. With a resilient spirit, she maintained an optimistic outlook, stating, “I don’t see any profit in being down.” Her legacy as a talented actress and advocate will be cherished by fans and colleagues alike.
Teri Garr, Oscar-Nominated Actress from 'Young Frankenstein' and 'Tootsie,' Dies at 79
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