Renowned actress Teri Garr, celebrated for her roles in “Young Frankenstein” and “Tootsie,” has passed away … succumbing to a protracted struggle with multiple sclerosis.
The beloved comedian departed this life in Los Angeles on Tuesday … more than two decades after she initially disclosed her MS diagnosis, which was extensively covered in her memoir, “Speedbumps: Flooring It Through Hollywood.”
In addition to MS, she faced a serious aneurysm in 2006 … leading to her complete withdrawal from acting 5 years later in 2011.
Before her health struggles began, Teri was a distinguished performer, amassing nearly 150 acting credits throughout a 40-year career.
Originally hailing from Lakewood, Ohio, Teri was nurtured near the glamour of Hollywood … being raised in the North Hollywood area of Los Angeles, where her father was a comedian and actor while her mother worked as a costume designer in the studios.
Although she is primarily celebrated for her humorous roles, Teri initially embarked on her career as a dancer … performing in six musicals featuring Elvis Presley.
She then transitioned to acting … landing what she considered her breakthrough role in a 1968 episode of “Star Trek.”
Following that, Teri secured roles in Francis Ford Coppola‘s 1974 suspense film, “The Conversation” … Mel Brooks‘ noted 1974 comedy classic, “Young Frankenstein” … as well as Steven Spielberg‘s renowned sci-fi movie, “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” released in 1977.
Nonetheless, it was her portrayal alongside Dustin Hoffman in “Tootsie” that garnered her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
Her impressive repertoire also includes titles like “Mr. Mom,” “After Hours,” “One from the Heart,” “The Player,” “M*A*S*H,” “The Odd Couple,” “The Bob Newhart Show,” “Friends,” and so many more.
Teri is survived by her daughter Molly … whom she adopted during her marriage to ex-husband John O’Neil.
She lived to the age of 79.
Rest in Peace