Garr began her career as a background dancer in Elvis Presley films, encouraged by her mother, a dancer herself. At six years old, she enrolled in dance classes, eventually touring with the road company of West Side Story in Los Angeles. Transitioning to film and television, she appeared in acclaimed shows like Batman and Dr. Kildare. A major turning point in Garr's career came with her supporting role in the 1974 thriller The Conversation.

However, it was her portrayal of Gene Wilder's lab assistant in the cult classic Young Frankenstein that solidified her status in comedy, thanks to her charming German accent. This role opened the floodgates for her to appear frequently on platforms like Late Night with David Letterman. In addition to her comedic legacy, Garr was also featured in significant films such as Close Encounters of the Third Kind and The Black Stallion, alongside appearances in notable television series including Star Trek and That Girl. Her multifaceted career and battling spirit will be remembered by fans worldwide.