October 20, 2024: Teri Garr, the talented Oscar-nominated actress, has sadly passed away at the age of 79 after a long battle with multiple sclerosis. Known for her iconic roles in films like Young Frankenstein and Tootsie, Garr made a lasting impact on the film industry with her performances.
She began her career as a dancer and made her film debut as an extra in A Swingin’ Affair (1963). Throughout the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, she appeared in numerous successful films, including a memorable role in The Conversation (1974) and a significant part in Spielberg’s Close Encounters of the Third Kind.
Garr rose to fame playing Inga, the assistant to Dr. Frederick Frankenstein in Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein, showcasing her comedic talent. Her performance in Tootsie (1982) earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
In addition to her film work, she had a recurring role as Phoebe Abbott in the beloved TV series Friends and was a familiar face on various talk shows, including The Tonight Show and Saturday Night Live.
Born in Ohio, Garr moved to Los Angeles to pursue her acting career, studying at Cal State Northridge before heading to New York. She is survived by her daughter, Molly O’Neil, and grandson, Tyryn. Her contributions to film and television will be remembered fondly.
