Teri Garr, the comic actress best known for her roles in films like “Young Frankenstein,” “Mr. Mom,” and“Tootsie,” died on Tuesday in Los Angeles after a long battle with MS.
Garr was born on December 11, 1947, in Lakewood, Ohio. She grew up in a creative environment; her father, a performer, and her mother, a dancer, influenced her artistic inclinations. Garr attended the University of California, Berkeley, where she initially pursued a career in dance before shifting her focus to acting.
Garr began her career in the 1960s as a dancer and appeared in various television shows, including “The Ed Sullivan Show.” Her breakthrough role came in 1974 when she starred in the film “Young Frankenstein,” directed by Mel Brooks. Her portrayal of Inga, the naïve and comedic lab assistant, showcased her talent for physical comedy and earned her widespread recognition.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Garr became a staple in both film and television. She starred in a variety of genres, demonstrating her versatility as an actress. Some of her notable films include “Tootsie,” which earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress,” “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” and “The Black Stallion.” In addition to her film career, Garr found success on television. She was a regular on the series “The Bob Newhart Show” and appeared in numerous guest spots on popular shows throughout the 1980s and 1990s, including “Friends” and “The Simpsons.” Her memorable performances in various roles demonstrated her adaptability and range.
In the late 1990s, Garr began to reduce her workload due to health issues, including a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis in 1983, which she has been open about. Despite these challenges, she continued to act in various roles, including voice work and guest appearances.
Teri Garr was 79.