Los Angeles — In the world of late-night television, few guests have left such an indelible mark as Teri Garr, the vivacious actress known for her roles in hits like “Tootsie” and “Young Frankenstein.” David Letterman, the renowned former talk show host, recently paid tribute to Garr, highlighting her as one of his most memorable guests following the news of her death at 79 due to complications from multiple sclerosis.
Garr, an Oscar-nominated actress, charmed audiences not only with her acting skills but also with her sharp wit and engaging presence in television interviews. Letterman honored her by sharing a nostalgic clip from her appearance on his show during the 1983 Academy Awards season. In the video, Garr humorously reflected on the surreal experience of potentially winning an Oscar, candidly admitting her lack of preparation for an acceptance speech.
The actress joked about the improbability of winning and mused on the irony of preparing a speech she might never deliver. Her candidness and humor in handling such high-pressure moments endeared her to audiences and made her appearances memorable highlights of Letterman’s talk show.
Garr’s battle with multiple sclerosis was both challenging and inspiring. She was first diagnosed in the late 1990s after experiencing symptoms during the filming of “One From the Heart” and “Tootsie.” Her fight with the disease was a long and private struggle until she publicly disclosed her condition in 2002, aiming to raise awareness and foster understanding about MS.
In her 2006 memoir, “Speedbumps: Flooring It Through Hollywood,” Garr captured the unpredictability of MS with a poignant metaphor, likening it to an unreliable boyfriend who shows up unexpectedly. This personal account provided rare insight into her 20-year journey toward diagnosis, marked by transient symptoms and inconclusive tests.
Despite the personal challenges posed by MS, Garr remained active in the entertainment industry and dedicated herself to advocacy work. She became a prominent figure within the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, serving as a national ambassador and the national chair for the Society’s Women Against MS program.
Her advocacy efforts were intertwined with a conscious decision to slow down her acting career, complying with the medical advice that stressed lessening the high anxiety and tension which aggravated her symptoms. In a 2005 interview with Brain & Life Magazine, Garr discussed the necessity of reducing stress to manage her condition effectively.
Garr’s contribution to film and television is significant, but her role in elevating the discourse around multiple sclerosis may be her most enduring legacy. As families and fans reflect on her career and advocacy, Garr’s spirit, resilience, and humor continue to inspire and resonate in the hearts of those who admired her both on and off the screen.