Actress Susan Backlinie, known for her role in the iconic movie Jaws, passed away at the age of 77. She died of a heart attack in her California home, her agent confirmed. Backlinie’s performance in the opening scene of Jaws, where she is attacked by a great white shark, showcased her talent as an actress. The scene, which was not choreographed, required her to scream and be pulled in various directions, creating a sense of realism. Co-star Richard Dreyfuss even mentioned in a documentary that director Steven Spielberg recorded her screams by pouring water in her mouth.
Beyond Jaws, Backlinie appeared in other films such as The Great Muppet Caper and Day of the Animals. She also reprised her role in Spielberg’s spoof film 1941 and had a role in the series The Fall Guy in 1982. Prior to her acting career, Backlinie was a freestyle swimming state champion and worked as an underwater mermaid performer at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park.
Her passing just before the 50th anniversary of Jaws is a poignant moment, as she had attended the 30th-anniversary celebration in 2005 at Martha’s Vineyard, the filming location of the movie. Backlinie is survived by her husband, Harvey Swindall.
