Tributes from Michael Keaton, Lisa Kudrow, Dustin Hoffman, Mel Brooks, and Others on the Death of Tootsie Actress Teri Garr at 79

Beloved actress Teri Garr sadly passed away on October 29, 2024, at the age of 79, following complications from multiple sclerosis. The news of her passing was confirmed by her long-time publicist, Heidi Schaeffer, who shared with USA Today that Garr took her final breath at her residence in Los Angeles.

The loss of Teri Garr has undeniably left her family, friends, followers, and fans reeling. Numerous figures from the entertainment industry gathered to pay their respects, reflecting on her remarkable contributions in films such as Tootsie, The Conversation, One from the Heart, and Young Frankenstein.

Michael Keaton, who starred alongside Teri Garr in the 1983 classic Mr. Mom, expressed his feelings on Instagram:

“This is a day I feared and knew was coming. Forget about how great she was as an actress and comedienne. She was a wonderful woman – not only great to work with but a joy to be around. AND go back and watch her comedic work—Man, was she great!! RIP, girl.”

Additionally, actress Lisa Kudrow shared her thoughts with People Magazine, reminiscing about her time with Garr on F.R.I.E.N.D.S., where Teri portrayed her mother. Kudrow remarked:

“Teri Garr was a comedic genius whose influence on me is immense. I’m incredibly fortunate to have worked with her.”

Dustin Hoffman, who collaborated with Garr in the iconic film Tootsie, commented to Entertainment Weekly:

“Teri was truly unique in her talents and had a heart of gold. Partnering with her was one of the highlights of my career. There was no one like her.”

Mel Brooks expressed his heartfelt sorrow on X, stating:

“It deeply saddens me to learn of Teri Garr’s passing. She was incredibly talented and so funny. Her vibrant humor made the YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN set delightful. Her ‘German’ accent had everyone in stitches! She will be profoundly missed.”

Among others, American television host David Letterman, director Francis Ford Coppola, and filmmaker Paul Feig also paid tribute to the talented actress. The Toronto International Film Festival commemorated Garr’s “charming performances”in a post as well.

Teri Garr’s Battle with Multiple Sclerosis

Teri Garr’s passing has left many in disbelief, especially since she publicly shared her battle with multiple sclerosis on CNN’s Larry King Live on October 8, 2002. This neurological condition affects the central nervous system and disrupts communication between the brain and body.

During her appearance, she explained:

“I’m sharing my experience for the first time to help others know they are not alone and to offer optimism, as there are now treatment options available. It’s natural to feel terrified when first hearing such news, largely due to the limited information surrounding the disease.”

She further revealed that she began noticing symptoms while filming Tootsie in 1982. Teri became an active participant with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, raising awareness about the condition. Four years later, she disclosed that she had suffered a brain aneurysm, leaving her in a coma for a week.

After enduring weeks of challenges with motor skills and speech recovery, she returned to her work in television and film, engaging in projects such as How to Marry a Billionaire.

Beginning her cinematic career in 1963 with Fun in Acapulco, Teri went on to star in numerous films including What a Way to Go!, Pajama Party, Red Line 7000, Girl Happy, Where Is the Bus?, Miracles, After Hours, Short Time, Michael, The Sky Is Falling, and many others.

As friends, family, and fans come to terms with the loss of this talented actress, her family has yet to announce details regarding her funeral and memorial services.

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