Garr's publicist, Heidi Schaeffer, confirmed that she died surrounded by family and friends on Tuesday. The actress, an advocate for awareness of multiple sclerosis, first spoke about her condition in 2002. In addition to her health challenges, she underwent surgery for an aneurysm in 2007, as reported by CBS.
Beginning her career as a background dancer in Elvis Presley films, Garr's passion for performing was nurtured by her mother, a former dancer who enrolled her in classes at an early age. She first gained prominence on stage with the touring company of West Side Story before transitioning to roles in film, including early appearances in television series like Batman and Dr. Kildare.
Garr's breakthrough came in 1974 with a role in the suspenseful film The Conversation, followed by her unforgettable portrayal as the lab assistant in Mel Brooks' comedy Young Frankenstein, which showcased her talent for humor. She established a comedic presence on Late Night with David Letterman and contributed to a variety of genres beyond comedy, featuring in films such as Close Encounters of the Third Kind and The Black Stallion.
In addition to her prolific film career, Garr made her mark on television with appearances in classic series including Star Trek and That Girl. Her contributions to film and television will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.
Beginning her career as a background dancer in Elvis Presley films, Garr's passion for performing was nurtured by her mother, a former dancer who enrolled her in classes at an early age. She first gained prominence on stage with the touring company of West Side Story before transitioning to roles in film, including early appearances in television series like Batman and Dr. Kildare.
Garr's breakthrough came in 1974 with a role in the suspenseful film The Conversation, followed by her unforgettable portrayal as the lab assistant in Mel Brooks' comedy Young Frankenstein, which showcased her talent for humor. She established a comedic presence on Late Night with David Letterman and contributed to a variety of genres beyond comedy, featuring in films such as Close Encounters of the Third Kind and The Black Stallion.
In addition to her prolific film career, Garr made her mark on television with appearances in classic series including Star Trek and That Girl. Her contributions to film and television will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.
