Susan Backlinie

2024 - 5 - 12

Susan Backlinie: The First Shark Attack Victim in 'Jaws' Who Left Us at 77

Jaws - Steven Spielberg - Stuntwoman - Susan Backlinie

Remembering Susan Backlinie, the iconic first victim in Steven Spielberg's 'Jaws,' who passed away at the age of 77. Dive into the story of the brave stuntwoman who faced the terrifying great white shark in the legendary opening scene.

Susan Backlinie, the talented stuntwoman who bravely portrayed the first shark attack victim in the iconic film 'Jaws,' has sadly passed away at the age of 77. Known for her role as Chrissie Watkins, Backlinie's chilling performance in the terrifying opening scene set the tone for Spielberg's blockbuster hit. Spielberg specifically chose Backlinie for her expertise in enduring the intense physical demands of the scene, highlighting her courage and skill in bringing the gripping moment to life.

Beyond her unforgettable role in 'Jaws,' Backlinie's impact as a pioneer in stunt work and as a symbol of resilience in the face of danger will forever be remembered. Her contribution to the film industry went beyond the screen, inspiring future generations of stunt performers and actors alike. Backlinie's legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of movie enthusiasts and fans of the classic thriller.

In a heartbreaking turn, Susan Backlinie's unexpected death has left a void in the film world, with tributes pouring in from colleagues and fans alike. Her groundbreaking performance in 'Jaws' remains a testament to her dedication to her craft and her fearless spirit in the midst of cinematic challenges. As we bid farewell to the trailblazing talent that was Susan Backlinie, her memory will forever be etched in cinematic history, a lasting symbol of bravery and artistry.

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Image courtesy of "The New York Times"

Susan Backlinie, First Shark Attack Victim in 'Jaws,' Dies at 77 (The New York Times)

Ms. Backlinie, a stunt woman, appeared in the terrifying opening scene of the 1975 blockbuster in which a great white shark attacks.

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Image courtesy of "Variety"

Susan Backlinie Dead: 'Jaws' Actor Was 77 (Variety)

Susan Backlinie, who played the first shark attack victim in Steven Spielberg's 'Jaws,' has died. She was 77.

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Image courtesy of "Hollywood Reporter"

Susan Backlinie, the First Victim of the Shark in 'Jaws,' Dies at 77 (Hollywood Reporter)

Steven Spielberg said he needed a stuntperson and expert swimmer who "knew how to endure what I imagined was going to be a whole lot of violent shaking.".

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Image courtesy of "USA TODAY"

Susan Backlinie, who played shark victim Chrissie Watkins in 'Jaws ... (USA TODAY)

Susan Backlinie, best known for her role as shark victim Chrissie Watkins in Steven Spielberg's "Jaws," reportedly died Saturday at the age of 77.

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Image courtesy of "Deadline"

Susan Backlinie Dies: 'Jaws' Actress Who Played First Shark Victim ... (Deadline)

The iconic first victim of the Great White shark in 'Jaws' is dead at 77.

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Image courtesy of "Fox News"

Susan Backlinie, first victim in 'Jaws' film, dead at 77 (Fox News)

Susan Backlinie, known for being the first victim to be eaten by the shark in "Jaws," has died at 77. Her husband says it was "very unexpected" and that she ...

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Image courtesy of "TheWrap"

Susan Backlinie, the First Victim in 'Jaws,' Dies at 77 - TheWrap (TheWrap)

"When your scene is done, I want everyone under the seats,” Steven Spielberg told stuntwoman Susan Backlinie as he explained the Jaws scene.

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Image courtesy of "KABC-TV"

Susan Backlinie, who played first shark attack victim in 'Jaws,' dies at ... (KABC-TV)

Susan Backlinie, who played the first shark attack victim in Steven Spielberg's 1975 film "Jaws," died over the weekend. She was 77.

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Image courtesy of "The Independent"

Susan Backlinie, 'first shark victim' in Steven Spielberg's Jaws, dies ... (The Independent)

Actor and stuntwoman played the shark's first victim, Chrissie Watkins, in 1975 classic horror.

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Image courtesy of "FOX40"

Susan Backlinie, actress from iconic scene in 'Jaws,' dies at 77 (FOX40)

Backlinie's scene in “Jaws,” during which she's attacked by an unseen shark while skinny-dipping off Amity Island, is considered to be one of the most ...

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Image courtesy of "PEOPLE.com"

Susan Backlinie, the First Victim of the Shark in Jaws, Dead at 77 (PEOPLE.com)

Susan Backlinie, who starred in Steven Spielberg's 1975 film 'Jaws,' died on May 11 of a heart attack, her representative Sean Clark has said. She was 77.

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