Teri Garr, known for her comedic talent and advocacy for Multiple Sclerosis, passed away at the age of 79 in Los Angeles on October 29, 2024. Her friend and publicist, Heidi Schaeffer, confirmed that her cause of death was due to complications associated with MS.
Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that damages the brain’s myelin, which protects nerve fibers. Teri herself spoke about the challenges of being misdiagnosed before finally learning she had MS. Despite the lack of a cure, treatments are available for patients living with this condition.
Teri Garr began her career as a dancer before transitioning to acting. She appeared in various films and TV shows, including Young Frankenstein, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and Tootsie, for which she received an Academy Award nomination. Throughout the 1980s, she had multiple TV roles and even hosted Saturday Night Live three times.
In the late 1990s, Teri had a recurring role in Friends as Phoebe Buffay’s biological mother. Her diverse filmography and memorable performances have left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Teri’s legacy extends beyond her acting career. She was a vocal advocate for those living with Multiple Sclerosis, raising awareness about the condition and sharing her own journey with the disease. Her contributions to both the entertainment world and the MS community will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.
