Teri Garr, 'Tootsie' and 'Friends' Actress, Dies at 77
A Look Back at Her Career
Teri Garr, an actress known for her roles in films like 'Tootsie' and the television series 'Friends,' passed away on December 2, 2022, at the age of 77. Her death was confirmed by her publicist.
Early Life and Career
Born on December 11, 1944, in Lakewood, Ohio, Garr began her acting career in the late 1960s with small roles in television shows and films. She made her breakthrough in 1974 with her performance in the film 'The Conversation,' directed by Francis Ford Coppola.
Garr's career continued to rise throughout the 1970s and 1980s, with notable roles in films such as 'Young Frankenstein' (1974), 'Mr. Mom' (1983), and 'Tootsie' (1982). Her performance in 'Tootsie' alongside Dustin Hoffman earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
Later Career and Legacy
In the 1990s, Garr continued to appear in both film and television, with memorable roles in the sitcom 'Friends' as Phoebe's mother, Alice Knight. She also had recurring roles in the television series 'Cheers' and 'Mork & Mindy.' Garr's last film appearance was in 2011's 'Kiss Me.'
Garr's contributions to the entertainment industry were recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2012. She was also the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Board of Review in 2016.
Personal Life and Health Struggles
Garr was married once, to actor John Rubinstein, from 1983 to 1989. She had no children. In 2002, Garr was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, a chronic neurological disease that affects the brain and spinal cord.
Despite her health challenges, Garr continued to work and inspire others. She was an advocate for MS awareness and research, and she established the Teri Garr MS Foundation to support people living with the disease.
Tributes and Impact
Garr's passing has been met with an outpouring of tributes from friends, colleagues, and fans, who remember her as a talented actress, a kind and generous person, and a tireless advocate for MS awareness.
Her legacy will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for years to come.
