Grease actress Susan Buckner, who played Patty Simcox, has died aged 72

actress Susan Bucknerbest known for playing cheerleader Patty Simcox in the 1978 film Fatdied at the age of 72.

“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Susan Buckner, best known to film audiences as the unforgettable, bubbly cheerleader Patty Simcox who co-starred with her John Travolta and the late one Olivia Newton John in the 1978 smash musical Fat” said a statement from Buckner’s family shared with Fox News on Tuesday, May 7.

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

Buckner’s daughter, Samantha Mansfield, adding: “She was magical. She was my best friend. And I will miss her every day. I was lucky to have such a lightning-resistant mother, and now I have her as an angel.”

Related: Prominent deaths in 2024

Hollywood mourned the loss of many celebrities in 2024. Speed ​​racer star Christian Oliver (born Christian Klepser) died at the age of 51 in a fatal plane crash on January 5th. Oliver traveled home from a Caribbean vacation with his two daughters Madita and Annik – he shared with his wife Jessica Klepser – on January 4th. (…)

Buckner died on Thursday, May 2, surrounded by her loved ones, the outlet reported.

In Fat, Buckner provided the memorable cheer for the fictional Rydell High School, the highest-grossing film of 1978.

“Do the splits, scream!” She cheered as Patty. “Show some spirit for old Rydell! Well done, Red and White! Go Rydell, fight, fight, fight!”

Buckner joined in The New York Times in October 2015, when the outlet published a post about it Ricci Campbella Bronx resident known for handing out photos of himself with Travolta, 70, and talking about his experiences as a dance extra Fat. Buckner noted that Campbell was “just as important as anyone else” involved in the hit film.

“He was one of us, everyone was a star in this movie,” she said.

Related: ‘Grease’ Cast: Where Are They Now?

Fat is the right word! When “Grease” was released in theaters in June 1978, the film was an instant hit – and its actors became instant stars. Based on the 1971 musical of the same name, the film follows Rydell High School students upon their return from summer vacation in 1958. As memorably summarized in the song (…)

In addition to her appearance as the peppy, perfectionist Rydell High cheerleader, Buckner appeared on many television programs including The Brady Bunch Variety Hour, The Secrets of the Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew And The Love Boat. She also starred in the ABC comedy series When the whistle blows in 1980 and starred in 1981 Wes Craven Horror movie Deadly blessing next to Sharon Stone. Buckner later retired from acting to start a family.

Before launching her acting career, Buckner was crowned Miss Washington in 1971 and placed first in the Miss America pageant in 1972.

In addition to her daughter Samantha, Buckner is also survived by her son Adam JosephsGrandchildren Oliver, Riley, Abigail and Ruby, sister Linda, daughter-in-law Noel Josephsson in law Adam Mansfield and long-time partner Al.