Los Angeles, California – Actress Teri Garr, known for her roles in iconic films like “Tootsie” and “Young Frankenstein,” passed away at the age of 79, as confirmed by her manager Marc Gurvitz. Garr, whose career spanned decades with memorable performances in movies such as “Oh, God!”, “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” and “Mr. Mom,” earned recognition with an Academy Award nomination for her role in “Tootsie” in 1982.
In 2002, Garr disclosed that she had been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, a condition that had been affecting her since 1983. She courageously navigated through various health struggles, as she recalled experiencing symptoms while living in New York, initially attributing them to running in Central Park. Despite encountering challenges in receiving a definitive diagnosis, Garr eventually confirmed her MS condition in 1999 and candidly shared her journey in battling the autoimmune disease in her book “Speedbumps: Flooring It Through Hollywood.”
Throughout her career and health battles, Garr remained resilient and continued to work in the entertainment industry, but acknowledged the complexities and biases she faced as a woman in Hollywood, especially as she confronted the reality of aging in a competitive industry. Despite the obstacles, Garr’s talent and dedication shone through her performances, leaving a lasting impact on audiences around the world.
Garr’s final acting appearance in 2011’s “How to Marry a Billionaire” marked the end of a remarkable career that spanned over several decades. She is survived by her daughter, Molly O’Neil, and a grandson. As news of her passing spread, heartfelt tributes poured in from colleagues and fans, with actor Michael Keaton remembering her not just for her comedic brilliance, but also for her warmth and kindness as a person.
Teri Garr’s legacy as a talented actress and resilient individual will be remembered by many, reflecting a career filled with memorable performances and a spirit that inspired those around her. Her impact on the entertainment industry remains significant, as she paved the way for future generations of actors and artists.