Hollywood is mourning the loss of Oscar-nominated actress Teri Garr, beloved for her roles in classics like Young Frankenstein, Tootsie, and Close Encounters of the Third Kind.
Garr passed away at 79 in Los Angeles, and her impact on the entertainment world has been celebrated by friends and co-stars.
Lisa Kudrow, who starred alongside Garr in Friends, where Garr portrayed her character Phoebe Buffay’s estranged mother, led the tributes.
Kudrow called Garr a “comedic acting genius” and expressed gratitude for the chance to work with her.
“She was and is a huge influence on me, and I know I’m not alone in that,” Kudrow said.
Mel Brooks, who directed Garr in Young Frankenstein, remembered her lively spirit and humor on set, especially her unforgettable “German” accent, which he said kept the cast laughing.
The 1974 comedy-horror film was a significant career milestone for Garr, establishing her as a powerhouse in comedy.
Fellow actor Michael Keaton, who worked with her in Mr. Mom, praised Garr not only as a talented actress but also as a “wonderful woman,” known for her warmth and kindness.
Garr’s career spanned from background dancing roles in Elvis Presley films to standout performances in acclaimed movies.
She earned an Oscar nomination for her role in Tootsie and gained fame on TV shows like Late Night with David Letterman.
She also made memorable appearances in Close Encounters of the Third Kind, The Black Stallion, and Star Trek.
Beyond her acting, Garr was an advocate for health awareness, publicly sharing her diagnosis of multiple sclerosis in 2002 to support others with the condition.
Her legacy, both on and off the screen, remains influential in Hollywood and beyond.
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