Lisa Kudrow pays tribute to Friends mother Teri Garr

Teri Garr, a beloved actress known for her remarkable talent and comedic timing, has sadly passed away at the age of 79. She was particularly famous for her role as Phoebe's mother in the iconic television series Friends. Lisa Kudrow, who portrayed Phoebe Buffay, led the tributes to Teri, expressing her deep admiration for the actress. In her heartfelt statement, Lisa described Teri as 'a comedic acting genius' who had a significant impact on her career. She expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside Teri, highlighting the joy and inspiration Teri brought to her life. Teri Garr was not only recognized for her role in Friends but also for her performances in classic films such as Young Frankenstein, Tootsie, and Close Encounters of the Third Kind. Her passing occurred in Los Angeles on a Tuesday, and many fans and colleagues are reflecting on her incredible contributions to the entertainment industry. Mel Brooks, the director of Young Frankenstein, also paid tribute to Teri, recalling her immense talent and infectious humor. He fondly remembered how her unique German accent brought laughter to the set, making the filming experience a delightful one. Teri's role in Young Frankenstein marked a turning point in her career, establishing her as a prominent figure in comedy. Additionally, she starred in the comedy Mr Mom alongside Michael Keaton, who praised her as a 'wonderful woman' and a joy to work with. Teri Garr faced numerous health challenges throughout her life. She was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis two decades ago and bravely spoke about her condition in 2002 to raise awareness for others living with the disease. Furthermore, she underwent surgery to repair an aneurysm in 2007, showcasing her resilience in the face of adversity. Teri's journey in the entertainment industry began as a background dancer in Elvis Presley films. Encouraged by her mother, who was also a dancer, Teri started taking dance classes at the young age of six. Her first significant role was with the road company of West Side Story in Los Angeles, which paved the way for her future in film and television. Teri transitioned from dancing to acting, appearing in popular television shows like Batman and Dr Kildare. Her breakthrough moment came in 1974 when she played a supporting role in the thriller The Conversation, which opened doors for her in Hollywood. Teri Garr later became a celebrated comedy actress, earning an Oscar nomination for her outstanding performance in Tootsie. She also made frequent appearances on Late Night with David Letterman, showcasing her charm and wit. In addition to her comedic roles, Teri demonstrated her versatility by taking on dramatic parts in films like Close Encounters of the Third Kind and The Black Stallion. She also graced television screens in shows such as Star Trek and That Girl. Teri Garr's legacy as a talented actress and a source of laughter will forever be cherished by her fans and colleagues alike.