Susan Buckner dead: “Grease” actress who played Patty was 72 years old

Susan Buckner, whose TV and film career included a memorable role in “Grease,” has died.

The actor “died peacefully on Thursday in Miami surrounded by his loved ones,” Melissa Berthier, a publicist for Buckner’s family, confirmed in a statement shared with The Times. A cause of death was not announced. She was 72.

“Susan will be remembered for her kindness, generosity and unwavering commitment to positively impacting the lives of others,” the statement said. “Her sparkling spirit will continue to inspire generations of artists and fans alike.”

Buckner, born January 28, 1952, appeared in various television and film projects in the ’70s and ’80s, but she is best known for “Grease.” In the 1978 musical, Buckner played Rydell High School cheerleader Patty Simcox, who recruits Olivia Newton-John’s Sandy Olsson to the cheerleading squad.

“We’re going to have so much fun and become friends for life,” Buckner’s Patty tells Sandy as she convinces her to try out for the team.

In the film, Buckner and Newton-John’s characters are seen waving pompoms and cheering “Do the splits, give a shout” at a football game. “Grease” also starred John Travolta, Stockard Channing, Jeff Conaway, Didi Conn and others. Newton-John died in 2022 at the age of 73.

Buckner’s Hollywood credits include appearances on television series such as “The Dean Martin Show,” “The Brady Bunch Variety Hour,” “Sonny and Cher,” “Starsky and Hutch” and the short-lived sitcom “When the Whistle Blows.” In addition to Grease, she also appeared in the film Return Engagement and Wes Craven’s 1981 horror film Deadly Blessing, which starred Sharon Stone.

Before Hollywood, Buckner was named Miss Washington in 1971 and co-founded the musical duo Buckner and Pratt. After her film career, Buckner focused on raising her two children. She also spent her post-Hollywood years as a director of children’s theater performances and as a dance teacher.

Buckner is survived by son Adam Josephs, daughter Samantha Mansfield, her grandchildren Oliver, Riley, Abigail and Ruby, sister Linda, daughter-in-law Noel Josephs, son-in-law Adam Mansfield and her longtime partner Al.

“Rest in peace, Susan,” it continued. “Your talent, spirit and infectious smile will live on in our hearts forever.”

Donations in Buckner’s honor may be made to the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden.