Teri Garr, ‘Tootsie’ Actress, Dies — Cause of Death Revealed
|Hollywood is mourning the loss of Teri Garr, the beloved actress known for her wit, warmth, and talent.
Garr, 79, passed away on Tuesday after a long battle with multiple sclerosis.
Teri Garr at The Hollywood Show on April 25, 2015, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Her publicist, Heidi Schaeffer, revealed that Garr was surrounded by family and close friends in her final moments.
Garr went public about her multiple sclerosis diagnosis in 2002 during an appearance on “Larry King Live.”
Teri Garr during the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s 30th Annual “Dinner of Champions” on September 14, 2004 | Source: Getty Images
She revealed that she had quietly endured the condition for nearly 20 years, keeping it to herself and staying in denial before deciding to go public.
When asked why she hadn’t spoken out earlier, Garr explained she wasn’t aware of her diagnosis at the time.
Teri Garr at the Professional Dancers Society’s Gypsy Awards Luncheon on March 24, 2013, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images
The actress recalled visiting “like 11 doctors” before anyone could identify the condition, describing it as “a very hard diagnosis” to confirm.
Even once she knew, Garr admitted she didn’t feel an immediate need to tell others.
Teri Garr’s potrait taken on October 24, 1984, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Garr’s career was nothing short of legendary as she brought laughs and depth in film and TV, leaving an indelible mark in classics like “Young Frankenstein” and “Mr. Mom.”
Teri Garr, on the set of “Young Frankenstein” in 1974. | Source: Getty Images
Her portrayal of the charming and spirited Sandy Lester in the 1982 romantic comedy “Tootsie” earned her an Academy Award nomination, solidifying her status as a comedic force.
With her trademark humor and undeniable talent, Garr leaves behind a legacy of laughter and light.