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

Sun Oct 19 2025 15:21:00 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Teri Garr, renowned for her roles in classic films, dies in Los Angeles after a prolonged illness, leaving a legacy of beloved performances.

Teri Garr, the celebrated actress known for her pivotal roles in classics like Young Frankenstein and Tootsie, has passed away at the age of 79. Garr died in Los Angeles on Tuesday, surrounded by family and friends, following a two-decade battle with multiple sclerosis, as confirmed by her publicist Heidi Schaeffer. First speaking publicly about her health condition in 2002, she aimed to raise awareness for others grappling with the same illness. Throughout her career, Garr faced various health challenges, including undergoing surgery for an aneurysm in 2007.

Garr began her career as a background dancer in Elvis Presley films, inspired by her mother's own dancing background. Early in her journey, she joined the road company of West Side Story in Los Angeles and transitioned to dance performances in films. She made appearances in TV shows like Batman and Dr. Kildare, but her breakthrough came in 1974 with a supporting role in the celebrated thriller, The Conversation. This led to her iconic performance as Gene Wilder's lab assistant in the cult classic Young Frankenstein, where she charmed audiences with a memorable German accent.

Beyond her comedic prowess, Garr showcased her versatility in dramatic roles in films such as Close Encounters of the Third Kind and The Black Stallion. Additionally, she graced the small screen with notable appearances on series like Star Trek and That Girl, solidifying her status as a cherished figure in the entertainment industry. Her legacy endures through the laughter and emotional connections she created with audiences around the world.