Actress Teri Garr, known for her roles in iconic movies like Young Frankenstein, Tootsie, and Close Encounters of the Third Kind, has passed away at the age of 79 in Los Angeles. Lisa Kudrow, who worked with Garr on Friends where she played Phoebe’s estranged birth mother, led the tributes to the comedic acting genius.
In a statement, Kudrow expressed her admiration for Garr, calling her a huge influence and stating how lucky and grateful she felt to have worked with her. Director Mel Brooks also paid tribute to Garr, praising her talent and humor, particularly recalling her ‘German’ accent in Young Frankenstein.
Garr, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 20 years ago, was known for her versatility as an actress, transitioning seamlessly between comedy and drama roles. She started her career as a background dancer in Elvis Presley movies and went on to star in various television shows and films, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Her legacy as a comedic and dramatic actress will continue to inspire future generations of performers.