Legendary actress Teri Garr passed away at the age of 79 in Los Angeles after a long battle with multiple sclerosis (MS). She had publicly disclosed her diagnosis in 2002. Garr became popular in the 1970s with a breakthrough role in Young Frankenstein and went on to star in movies like Tootsie and Mr. Mom. She was nominated for an Oscar for her role in Tootsie and also made notable guest appearances in series shows like MAS*H and The Bob Newhart Show.
Despite being a familiar face in the film and television industry of the ’70s and ’80s, Garr connected with a newer audience through her recurring role in Friends as Phoebe Abbott, the estranged birth mother of Phoebe Buffay. Garr decided to speak publicly about her battle with MS in the hopes of raising awareness about the chronic disease that affects the central nervous system. She reassured others in a 2002 interview that despite the fear and uncertainty surrounding the disease, she was continuing to live her life to the fullest.
In her 2006 memoir, Speedbumps: Flooring It Through Hollywood, Garr candidly shared how her disease had impacted her acting career. She revealed that despite her symptoms remaining manageable for years, the industry turned its back on her. Garr felt a mix of outrage, insecurity about her acting abilities, and the harsh reality of aging as an actress. She faced another health scare in 2006 when she suffered a ruptured brain aneurysm, putting her in a coma for a week. After coming out of the coma, Garr underwent therapy and was able to regain her motor skills and speech.
By 2011, Garr had retired from acting but continued to be an advocate for MS awareness. She is survived by her daughter, Molly O’Neil, whom she adopted with ex-husband John O’Neil. Garr’s legacy as a talented actress who was unafraid to share her struggles with MS and other health issues will continue to inspire fans and fellow actors. Her impact on the entertainment industry, particularly during a time when awareness about chronic diseases like MS was lacking, solidifies her as a trailblazer and beloved figure in Hollywood.
