Andrew Garfield and Elmo. Photo: Elmo/X
Andrew Garfield recently opened up to Elmo about his late mother, Lynn, who passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2019. The heartfelt conversation took place in a video shared by the beloved Sesame Street character on October 18.
Elmo began the chat by checking in on Garfield, asking how he was doing. Sitting beside the muppet on a stoop, the 41-year-old actor expressed his joy in seeing Elmo, saying he was "doing okay." When Elmo encouraged him to share his feelings, Garfield revealed, “I’m just thinking about my mum today. You know, she passed away not too long ago, and I just miss her. I miss her a lot.”
Elmo expressed his sympathy, and Garfield reassured him that it’s normal to miss someone. He explained to Elmo that sadness can be a gift, as it reflects the love shared with someone who is no longer around. “When I miss my mom, I remember all of the cuddles and hugs I used to get from her, and it makes me feel close to her,” he said. Garfield noted that while he misses her, he also cherishes the joyful memories she left behind, emphasizing that his feelings of loss stem from the happiness she brought into his life.
Andrew Garfield and mother Lynn Garfield in 2018. Photo: Bruce Glikas/FilmMagic
Elmo responded positively, and before the video ended, Garfield shared a sweet memory: “Elmo was my mummy’s favorite!” In response to the touching exchange, Elmo's friend Grover offered a warm hug, and fans expressed their emotions online. One viewer remarked, “Grief is love with nowhere to go,” highlighting Garfield's relatable perspective on loss.
In 2019, Garfield had been filming The Eyes of Tammy Faye but left to be with his mother during her final days. After her passing, he reflected on her encouragement to pursue his career despite her illness. His upcoming film, We Live in Time, addresses similar themes. In the romantic dramedy, Garfield's character, Tobias, falls in love with Almut, a chef diagnosed with late-stage ovarian cancer. The narrative explores their evolving relationship as they face life's challenges together. We Live in Time premiered in select theaters on October 11.
