Teri Garr, a beloved comedy actress who captured the hearts of audiences with her quirky and offbeat charm, has passed away at the age of 79. Garr’s remarkable journey took her from the chorus lines of Elvis Presley films to starring roles in iconic comedies such as Young Frankenstein and Tootsie. Throughout her long and illustrious career, Garr faced numerous challenges, including a battle with multiple sclerosis, which she courageously revealed to the public in 2002.
Born to a vaudeville comedian father and a Rockette mother, Garr’s love for show business was evident from a young age. She began taking dance lessons at six and, by 14, was performing with the San Francisco and Los Angeles ballet companies. Her early success led to bit parts in films, including appearances in nine Elvis Presley movies.
Garr’s big break came when she landed the role of Gene Hackman’s girlfriend in Francis Ford Coppola’s thriller The Conversation. This led to an interview with Mel Brooks, who cast her as Gene Wilder’s German lab assistant in Young Frankenstein. Her performance earned her rave reviews, with The New Yorker’s Pauline Kael declaring her “the funniest neurotic dizzy dame on the screen.”
Throughout her career, Garr showcased her impressive range, appearing in dramas such as Close Encounters of the Third Kind, The Black Stallion, and The Escape Artist. However, it was her comedic performances that brought her the most acclaim. Her memorable roles in Oh God!, Mr. Mom, and Tootsie solidified her status as a talented comedian.
Teri Garr (Image via Getty)
Garr was also known for her spontaneous humor and her ability to think on her feet. Her frequent appearances on David Letterman’s Late Night With David Letterman became a highlight of the show, and her playful banter with Letterman led to rumors of a romantic relationship between the two. Garr was also a natural storyteller, often regaling audiences with tales of her lifelong journey in show business.
Despite her struggles with multiple sclerosis, Garr continued to act and became a spokesperson for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Her courage and resilience inspired countless people, and she remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry until her passing.
Garr is survived by her daughter, Molly, and grandson, Tyryn. Her legacy will be remembered through her iconic performances, her unwavering spirit, and her unshakeable sense of humor.
