Teri Garr, Iconic Star of Young Frankenstein and Tootsie, Passes Away at 79

Mon Dec 01 2025 00:22:25 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Teri Garr, an acclaimed actress renowned for her roles in classic films, has died after a long health battle.

Teri Garr, celebrated for her performances in films such as Young Frankenstein and Tootsie, has passed away at the age of 79 in Los Angeles. According to her publicist, she succumbed on Tuesday after a 20-year struggle with multiple sclerosis, surrounded by her family and friends. Garr bravely opened up about her condition in 2002 to raise awareness, highlighting her dedication to supporting others afflicted by the disease. Her health had continued to decline, which included a surgical procedure in 2007 for an aneurysm.

Garr’s career began as a background dancer in Elvis Presley films, encouraged by her mother, a former dancer. She gained initial recognition for her work in the road company of West Side Story in Los Angeles, which led to an array of roles in television, including iconic appearances in Batman and Dr. Kildare.

Her breakout moment came in 1974 with her performance in The Conversation, but it was her role as Gene Wilder’s lab assistant in Young Frankenstein that solidified her place in the comedy genre. Her unique style and wit paved the way for countless appearances on Late Night with David Letterman, making her a beloved figure in the entertainment world. In addition, Garr showcased her versatility with memorable performances in Close Encounters of the Third Kind and The Black Stallion, along with roles on popular television series like Star Trek and That Girl.