Prominent US Comedienne Teri Garr Passes Away at 79
Teri Garr, the quirky and beloved comedic actress known for her roles in classics like “Young Frankenstein” and “Tootsie,” passed away on Tuesday. She was 79, The Associated Press reports.
Garr’s career spanned decades, beginning with her work as a background dancer in Elvis Presley films. Her big break came in 1974 with a role in Francis Ford Coppola’s thriller “The Conversation.” This led to an interview with Mel Brooks, who offered her the part of Gene Wilder’s lab assistant in “Young Frankenstein,” as long as she could master a German accent. Garr, who learned the accent from a wigmaker on set, delivered a memorable performance that cemented her status as a comedic force.
“She made everything she was in better,” wrote screenwriter Cinco Paul in a tribute on social media.
Garr’s unique comedic timing and off-center appeal landed her roles in a string of beloved films like “Oh, God!”, “Mr. Mom,” and “Tootsie,” where she played Dustin Hoffman’s girlfriend who discovers his secret identity as a woman.
Despite her comedic success, Garr demonstrated her versatility in dramatic roles in films such as “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” “The Black Stallion,” and “The Escape Artist.” She also became a familiar face on television, with appearances on shows like “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” “Greetings From Tucson,” and “Friends,” where she played Lisa Kudrow’s mother.
Garr was known for her spontaneous humor and her memorable appearances alongside David Letterman on “Late Night With David Letterman.” The duo’s good-natured banter helped make the show a hit.
In 1999, Garr was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. After initially keeping her diagnosis private, she eventually became a spokesperson for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, using her humor to raise awareness and inspire others.
