13th May 2024 – (New York) Susan Backlinie, renowned for her role in Steven Spielberg’s iconic 1975 film ‘Jaws,’ has died at the age of 77. Her convention agent, Matthew Templeton, confirmed the news, stating that the stuntwoman and actress passed away on Saturday, 11th May. Reports from The New York Times also revealed that Backlinie suffered a fatal heart attack at her home.
In ‘Jaws,’ Backlinie portrayed Chrissie Watkins, the film’s first victim of the menacing shark attack, famously known for the gripping skinny-dipping scene. At the time, she was only 28 years old.
Prior to her involvement in ‘Jaws,’ Backlinie had an extensive background in water-related activities. She was a professional diver and a nationally ranked swimmer. Her experience as an animal trainer and mermaid performer further showcased her versatility.
Director Steven Spielberg specifically sought out Backlinie for the role, emphasising the need for a skilled stuntwoman who could excel in water. In Laurent Bouzereau’s book ‘Spielberg: The First Ten Years,’ Spielberg expressed his admiration for Backlinie’s abilities, stating, “I needed somebody who was great in the water, who knew water ballet and knew how to endure what I imagined was going to be a whole lot of violent shaking.”
The filming of Backlinie’s memorable scene in ‘Jaws’ lasted three days, as she was harnessed and pulled by a team of ten crew members to simulate the shark’s forceful drag into the ocean.
Apart from her portrayal in ‘Jaws,’ Backlinie appeared in various other films, including ‘A Stranger in the Forest’ (1976), ‘Two-Minute Warning’ (1976), and ‘The Great Muppet Caper’ (1981). She was married to William Seal.
The news of Backlinie’s passing has deeply saddened the ‘Jaws’ community, with co-star Jeffrey Kramer expressing his grief, stating, “Susan was a kind and loving soul and will be sorely missed.”