Teri Garr, Iconic Actress from Young Frankenstein and Tootsie, Passes Away at 79

Teri Garr, celebrated for her roles in films like Young Frankenstein and Tootsie, has passed away at the age of 79, following a long battle with multiple sclerosis.

Teri Garr, the Oscar-nominated actress famed for her work in classic films such as Young Frankenstein, Mr. Mom, and Tootsie, has died at the age of 79, as reported by US media outlets. She passed away on Tuesday in Los Angeles, surrounded by family and friends, according to her publicist, Heidi Schaeffer.

Garr publicly shared her diagnosis of multiple sclerosis in 2002 to help raise awareness about the chronic autoimmune disease and its challenges. In addition to her battle with MS, Garr also dealt with health issues that included undergoing surgery to repair an aneurysm in 2007, CBS reports.

Her journey in show business began early when her mother, a former dancer, enrolled her in dance classes at six years old. This led to her first significant role as a background dancer in Elvis Presley films, and she eventually joined the road company for West Side Story in Los Angeles. Garr's early television appearances included roles in shows like Batman and Dr. Kildare, but her big break arrived in 1974 when she secured a supporting role in the thriller The Conversation.

Garr soon became known for her comedy chops, notably playing Gene Wilder's lab assistant in the horror-comedy Young Frankenstein, a part that showcased her talent and introduced her to a wider audience. She also gained recognition through regular appearances on Late Night with David Letterman.

While she shone in comedic roles, Garr proved her versatility with dramatic performances in acclaimed films like Close Encounters of the Third Kind and The Black Stallion, and her television credits spanned classics such as Star Trek and That Girl. Her contributions to the entertainment industry will be fondly remembered and celebrated by fans around the world.