Teri Garr, a beloved comedy actor known for her quirky and offbeat roles in films like “Young Frankenstein” and “Tootsie,” passed away at the age of 79 due to multiple sclerosis. She began her career as a background dancer in Elvis Presley movies and eventually rose to prominence as a talented comedic performer with a flair for both comedy and drama. Despite battling health issues in recent years, Garr continued to act and make public appearances, becoming a spokeswoman for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Growing up in Los Angeles in a show business family with two older brothers, Garr’s mother was a former dancer and her father was a traveling comedian who passed away when she was 11. She began dance lessons at a young age and eventually joined the road company of “West Side Story” in Los Angeles at the age of 16. Garr’s early appearances in films and television shows led her to become a featured dancer on various programs, including the rock ‘n’ roll music show “Shindig” and “The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour.”
Garr’s big break came when she landed a role in Francis Ford Coppola’s thriller “The Conversation” in 1974, which led to her memorable role as Gene Wilder’s German lab assistant in Mel Brooks’ “Young Frankenstein.” This established her as a talented comedy performer, with critic Pauline Kael proclaiming her as “the funniest neurotic dizzy dame on the screen.” Garr went on to star in a number of popular films, including “Oh God!” with George Burns, “Mr. Mom” with Michael Keaton, and “Tootsie” alongside Dustin Hoffman and Jessica Lange.
Despite facing challenges in her personal life, including a marriage that ended in divorce and battles with multiple sclerosis, Garr continued to act in various TV shows like “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” and “Friends,” where she had a recurring role as Lisa Kudrow’s mother. She also became known for her frequent appearances on “Late Night With David Letterman,” where her spontaneous humor and chemistry with the host helped make the show a hit. Garr’s decision to go public with her MS diagnosis led her to become a spokesperson for the National MS Society, where she made humorous speeches to raise awareness about the disease.
In her autobiography titled “Speedbumps: Flooring It Through Hollywood,” Garr reflected on her career and personal life, including her decision not to disclose her age, a practice she learned from her mother who was also in show business. Despite her father’s initial warning about the industry, Garr found success and fulfillment as an actor, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances that showcased her comedic talents and versatility as a performer. She is survived by her daughter, Molly O’Neill, and a grandson, Tyryn. Teri Garr’s contributions to comedy and acting will be remembered and cherished by fans and colleagues alike.
