Susan Backlinie, the talented actress and stuntwoman best known for her role as the first victim of the shark in Jaws, has passed away at 77. She died at her home in Ventura, California, on Saturday.
Her convention agent confirmed the news, saying, “It is with heartfelt regret that we announce Susan’s passing this morning. We appreciate all the condolences and ask for privacy for the family during this difficult time.”
Backlinie gained fame for her portrayal of Chrissie Watkins in Steven Spielberg’s 1975 film Jaws. At 28, the nationally ranked swimmer and professional diver was cast as the swimmer who tragically encounters the great white shark.
Before her iconic role in Jaws, Backlinie had a diverse career involving animals and water. She worked as a stuntwoman and performed as a mermaid at Florida’s Weeki Wachee Springs, and she had experience working with wild animals such as tigers and bears.
Her unique skills drew Spielberg’s attention, who appreciated her expertise for the film. Backlinie reportedly told Spielberg, “If you hire me, you might get close-ups of the stunt itself. If you hire an actress, she’ll have to cover her face.”
In Spielberg: The First Ten Years, Laurent Bouzerau quotes Spielberg praising Backlinie’s suitability for the role: “I went to stunts to find the perfect stuntwoman, and Susan was up to the task.”
Backlinie recalled Spielberg’s words before filming the famous scene: “He said, ‘When your scene is done, I want everyone under the seats with the popcorn and the bubblegum.’”
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