Susan Backlinie, the First Victim in "Jaws," Passes Away

Susan Backlinie, renowned for her unforgettable role as Chrissie in the iconic 1975 film "Jaws," has sadly passed away at the age of 77. Her husband, Harvey Swindall, confirmed her unexpected death on Saturday morning due to a heart attack.

Susan Backlinie, the actress who played Chrissie, the first victim in the groundbreaking film "Jaws," has passed away at the age of 77. Her husband, Harvey Swindall, confirmed her sudden demise on Saturday morning, July 30, 2023, in their California home.

Backlinie's role in "Jaws" catapulted her to prominence. She was chosen for her athletic prowess as a nationally ranked swimmer, which enabled her to perform the demanding underwater scenes effectively. Director Steven Spielberg specifically sought a stunt performer to portray Chrissie, recognizing the need for someone adept in water ballet and capable of enduring the intense choreography.

In a 2017 interview with the Palm Beach Post, Backlinie recalled Spielberg's vision for her iconic scene. "The first thing he said to me was, 'When your scene is done, I want everyone under the seats with the popcorn and bubblegum,'" she said, indicating the profound impact he aimed to create.

The filming process for Backlinie's underwater scene involved a complex setup. Cables were extended from the beach to pilings in the water, with Backlinie positioned between them. Crew members on the beach pulled the cables to simulate the violent shaking and movement of the shark attack.

Despite rumors, Backlinie denied sustaining any broken ribs during filming. However, she acknowledged the physically demanding nature of the process, which required filming from early morning until late afternoon.

Following her memorable performance in "Jaws," Backlinie continued her acting career, mostly in stunt roles and television appearances. She remained an active member of the film industry, sharing her experiences and insights with aspiring actors and filmmakers.

Backlinie's passing is a significant loss to the entertainment world and to those who cherished her contributions to the iconic film "Jaws." Her portrayal of Chrissie remains one of the most unforgettable moments in cinematic history, leaving an enduring legacy in the hearts of movie enthusiasts.