Quick Facts of Susan Backlinie
In the glitzy world of Hollywood, where the spotlight often shifts swiftly, some stars leave an indelible mark with iconic performances. Susan Backlinie, a former actress and stuntwoman, fits this bill with her unforgettable role in the opening scene of “Jaws” (1975), where she became the first victim of the menacing shark.
As the swimmer whose terrified screams echoed through cinematic history, Backlinie’s career took a unique trajectory, eventually leading her away from the glitz and glamour of showbiz. Let’s dive into the details of Susan Backlinie’s intriguing journey from the jaws of Hollywood to the tranquil waters of a quieter life.
How Old is Susan Backlinie Now?
Born on September 1, 1946, in Ventura, California, Susan Backlinie is an American nationality holder who is yet to reavel her parents and siblings.
She made a splash in the entertainment industry, both literally and figuratively. Standing at an impressive height of 5’8″ (1.73 m), she became known not only for her acting prowess but also as a skilled stuntwoman and animal trainer. Also, read about Sharri Maio
What is Her Most Notable Career Performance?
Backlinie’s most notable moment on screen came in the opening scene of Steven Spielberg’s iconic film, “Jaws.” As the unsuspecting swimmer who falls prey to the relentless shark, she delivered a performance that left audiences on the edge of their seats.
IMAGE SOURCE: Instagram
Contrary to rumors surrounding her screams of anguish, it wasn’t due to any mishap with the harness but rather a carefully orchestrated sequence that showcased her acting talent. Richard Dreyfuss, her co-star in “Jaws,” was so terrified by her performance that he admitted it genuinely frightened him. Check out another stuntman, Andrew Koji
The Spielberg Connection
Susan Backlinie’s collaboration with Spielberg didn’t end with “Jaws.” In the 1979 film “1941,” Spielberg’s comedic take on World War II, Backlinie reprised her role in a parody scene.
Instead of facing the toothy menace of a shark, she found herself being “picked up” by the periscope of a Japanese submarine. This scene, often regarded as the best joke in an otherwise less successful film, highlighted Backlinie’s willingness to embrace humor and playfulness in her career.
Beyond “Jaws,” Backlinie appeared in the 1977 film “Day of the Animals,” a movie often deemed a “Jaws clone” with its theme of nature gone bad. Her versatility as an actress and stuntwoman allowed her to navigate various genres and roles, showcasing a depth that extended beyond the terror-filled waters of her iconic shark encounter.
What About Her Personal Life and Family?
While Susan Backlinie’s Hollywood career brought her into the limelight, her personal life has been notably private. She married Monty Cox before tying the knot with her current husband, Harvey Swindall, in 1995. Together, the married duo shares the joys of parenthood with a son and a daughter.
IMAGE SOURCE: Instagram
Away from the glitz of Hollywood, Backlinie chose to settle in her hometown of Ventura, California. There, she transitioned into a different role as a computer accountant, embracing a quieter life that contrasts sharply with the whirlwind of her Hollywood days.
Controversial Pictorials and Nudity
Susan Backlinie’s career took an unexpected turn with her appearance in pictorials for adult magazines. In the January 1973 issue of Penthouse, she featured in her own pictorial titled “The Lady and the Lion,” showcasing a different aspect of her career.
A year later, she submitted a nude photo of herself to the Jaws production executive who ultimately brought her to Spielberg’s attention for the role of Chrissie.
IMAGE SOURCE: Instagram
Her nude appearances continued, with the February 1977 issue of Mayfair featuring her in a spread titled “Susan Backlinie – The nude from Jaws.” These decisions, though unconventional, added a layer of complexity to her public image and spoke to Backlinie’s willingness to challenge societal norms.
Susan Backlinie’s journey from the jaws of a mechanical shark to the peaceful shores of Ventura, California, is a testament to the multifaceted nature of a Hollywood career. While her on-screen legacy is forever etched in the annals of film history, her choice to retreat from the spotlight and lead a private life reflects a different, perhaps more fulfilling, chapter.
Whether being terrorized by sharks or picked up by a submarine’s periscope, Susan Backlinie’s contributions to cinema and her unique life choices continue to intrigue and captivate those who appreciate the enigmatic allure of Hollywood’s past.
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