Dustin Hoffman Pays Tribute To His Late ‘Tootsie’ Costar Teri Garr

Shortly after Teri Garr’s death was announced by her publicist Heidi Schaeffer, her late Tootsie co-star Dustin Hoffman issued a heartfelt tribute via The New York Post. He praised the late actress for her heart of gold and dedication to work, which made her a delight to collaborate with.

Hoffman said playing the Michael Dorsey to her Sandy Lester in the 1982 classic was a highlight of his career, adding that there was no one like her. Hoffman’s testimony of Teri’s dedication is evidenced by the recognition she received for playing Sandy, which included an Oscar nomination.

Dustin Hoffman remembers Teri Garr

While most people of recent generations recognize Teri as Lisa Kudrow’s TV mom from Friends, one of her career breakthroughs was playing Sandy on Tootsie. Although Hoffman seems to remember the late sitcom star fondly, she thought he was exhausting as a co-star, admitting years ago that he liked to have his way most of the time.

Both actors went on to make magic with their characters, with Teri improvising some of the show’s most memorable moments. Fans responded to Hoffman’s heartfelt tribute on social media, saying they delivered one of the greatest comedies of all time. “RIP Teri. You were the best ditzie blonde to grace the screen,” someone penned.

Teri Garr was equally fond of Dustin Hoffman

She was initially skeptical about joining Tootsie, however, Hoffman convinced her to try, and convinced director Sydney Pollack to let her self-express her character. Teri never forgot about Dustin’s show of support, which deepened their friendship off-screen.

Aside from Hoffman, other Hollywood celebrities, including Lisa, Mel Brooks, David Letterman, and Michael Keaton, who claimed to have feared her passing, took to social media to pay their respects. Teri is survived by her daughter, Molly O’Neil, and grandson, Tyryn, who were likely at her deathbed on Tuesday.