Teri Garr, Beloved Actress from Tootsie and Friends, Passes Away at 79

 

Teri Garr, the Oscar-nominated actress known for her memorable roles in Tootsie, Young Frankenstein, and Friends, has died at 79. Garr’s publicist confirmed her passing, sharing that she died of complications from multiple sclerosis, surrounded by family and friends. Diagnosed in 2002, Garr also faced a ruptured brain aneurysm in 2007, yet continued to advocate for multiple sclerosis awareness and research.

Garr’s career began in the 1960s, with her early work as a background dancer in films and TV shows. She once shared her struggle with being labeled as an "extra," explaining in a 2008 interview that after years of dance training, she found herself placed in the extras union. Her first speaking role came in 1968 in Head, a film by The Monkees, which she landed while studying alongside co-writer Jack Nicholson. The 1970s marked her rise to fame, with standout roles in The Conversation, Oh, God!, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and Young Frankenstein.

In the 1980s, Garr earned an Oscar nomination for her role in Tootsie, starring alongside Dustin Hoffman. Her filmography continued to grow with appearances in One from the Heart, The Sting II, After Hours, and Mr. Mom. Later, in the 1990s, Garr starred in Prêt-à-Porter and played significant roles in Dumb and Dumber and Dick. She also portrayed Phoebe’s estranged mother in Friends, endearing herself to a new generation of fans.

Reflecting on the lack of roles for women, Garr expressed frustration in 2008, noting that Hollywood often sidelines intelligent and witty female characters. Her work paved the way for more realistic portrayals of women in comedy and film. Fellow comedian Tina Fey once admired Garr’s natural charm, saying she was relatable and genuine, with a down-to-earth appeal.

After publicly revealing her MS diagnosis, Garr dedicated herself to supporting others with the condition, serving as a national ambassador for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. She recounted her experiences in her 2006 autobiography, Speedbumps: Flooring It Through Hollywood.

Comedian and director Paul Feig, who worked with Garr on the 2006 film Unaccompanied Minors, paid tribute on social media, describing her as "a legend" and "one of [his] comedy heroes." Garr’s legacy lives on through her unforgettable characters, her humor, and her advocacy, inspiring audiences and colleagues alike.