Susan Backlinie, the American actress and stuntwoman who portrayed the ill-fated Chrissie in the opening scene of Steven Spielberg's 1975 classic "Jaws," has died.
She was 77.
Backlinie was 27 when she landed the role that made her a memorable part of cinema history.
Her character's terrifying encounter with a great white shark set the tone for the blockbuster.
She shared the screen with stars like Richard Dreyfuss, Roy Scheider, and Lorraine Gary. The film became a cultural phenomenon and defined the summer blockbuster era.
Beyond "Jaws," Backlinie appeared in other films including "Day of the Animals," "1941," and "The Great Muppet Caper."
Her work often involved stunts, showcasing her skills as a stuntwoman.
Backlinie's contribution to film, especially that iconic scene, has been remembered by fans and colleagues. She passed away in 2024.
