Teri Garr, the actress famous for her roles in Tootsie, Young Frankenstein, and Friends, has passed away at the age of 79.
Garr died from complications of multiple sclerosis, surrounded by loved ones, as confirmed by her publicist to the Associated Press. She had been battling the disease since 2002 and underwent surgery in 2007 after a brain aneurysm.
Her career began as a background artist, where she appeared as a go-go dancer in various films and shows in the 1960s. Despite feeling undervalued as an extra, she eventually landed her first speaking role in the film Head in 1968.
She rose to prominence in the 1970s with roles in films like The Conversation, Oh, God!, and Young Frankenstein. She also starred in Close Encounters of the Third Kind in 1977.
In the 1980s, Garr received an Oscar nomination for her role in Tootsie and appeared in several other notable films, including Mr. Mom and After Hours.
Throughout the 1990s, she continued to work in film and television, with appearances in Prêt-à-Porter, Dumb and Dumber, and Friends.
Garr was a vocal advocate for women in the industry, speaking out about the lack of substantial roles for talented actresses. Despite facing health challenges, she remained optimistic and used her platform to raise awareness about multiple sclerosis.
Director Paul Feig, who worked with Garr on the film Unaccompanied Minors, paid tribute to her on social media, highlighting her talent and kindness.
Garr’s legacy as a talented and resilient actress will continue to inspire future generations in the entertainment industry.