Lisa Kudrow Honors Teri Garr, Her “Friends” Mother

Lisa Kudrow has led heartfelt tributes to Oscar-nominated actress Teri Garr, who portrayed her estranged birth mother in the beloved series Friends. Garr passed away at the age of 79 on Tuesday in Los Angeles, leaving behind a legacy of iconic performances.

In her tribute, Kudrow described Garr as “a comedic acting genius” who had a profound influence on her career. “I feel so lucky and grateful to have worked with her,” she shared, emphasizing the impact Garr had on countless actors and audiences alike.

Mel Brooks, the director and writer of Young Frankenstein, also honored Garr’s talent. He remembered her as “so talented and so funny,” noting that her lively spirit brought joy to the set. “Her ‘German’ accent had us all in stitches!” he added, recalling the memorable moments from the 1974 horror-comedy that helped launch Garr’s career.

Garr’s role as Gene Wilder’s lab assistant in Young Frankenstein became a defining moment in her career. She later starred in numerous films, including Mr. Mom opposite Michael Keaton, who praised her as “a wonderful woman, not just great to work with but great to be around.”

Despite facing significant health challenges, Garr remained a vibrant presence in the entertainment industry. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis two decades ago, she publicly discussed her condition in 2002 to raise awareness. Additionally, she underwent surgery to repair an aneurysm in 2007, showcasing her resilience.

Born to a family of dancers, Garr began her career as a background dancer in Elvis Presley movies, inspired by her mother, who enrolled her in dance classes at the age of six. Her early work included performing in the road company of West Side Story in Los Angeles and appearing in classic television shows like Batman and Dr. Kildare.

Garr’s big break came in 1974 with a supporting role in the thriller The Conversation, which paved the way for her to establish herself as a versatile comedy actress. She received an Oscar nomination for her performance in the 1982 film Tootsie, further solidifying her place in Hollywood.

Beyond her film work, Garr made frequent appearances on Late Night with David Letterman and participated in notable dramatic roles in films like Close Encounters of the Third Kind and The Black Stallion. She also guest-starred in popular television series such as Star Trek and That Girl, showcasing her range as an actress.

As tributes pour in from fans and colleagues, it is clear that Teri Garr’s impact on the film and television industry will be remembered for years to come. Her legacy as a talented actress, warm spirit, and pioneer for those living with health challenges continues to inspire many.