Susan Buckner, star of the iconic movie musical Grease, has sadly passed away, as confirmed by the actress’ family.
What’s the word? Grease is the word. The 1970s remains one of the most celebrated decades for movies, fondly remembered for such classics as One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest, Taxi Driver, and more. Many would argue the most ‘rewatchable’ of that decade is, without a shadow of a doubt, Grease. Released in 1978, the larger-than-life musical starring Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta is forever cemented in pop culture, but it took far more than just two talented stars to make up the cast. Tragically, one of those individuals has recently passed away…
Grease actress Susan Buckner has sadly died
The family of Grease star Susan Buckner confirmed she passed away at the age of 72 on Thursday, May 2nd 2024.
She played the role of Patty Simcox, one of the Rydell High cheerleaders in Sandy’s (played by Olivia) tight-knit circle of friends. She was spotted side-by-side with Sandy throughout the movie in a handful of memorable scenes.
The celebrity‘s family made the announcement, reassuring friends and fans that she passed on peacefully in the company of her loved ones.
Not only will her life be immortalized by Grease, but she also starred in a range of other projects across both movies and TV. The Seattle-born actress’ career began to take flight after earning a dancing position on The Dean Martin Show, leading to variety show appearances on things from The Mac Davis Show to Sonny and Cher.
Grease became a popular hit with audiences and a box office behemoth to boot, helping score Susan parts on episodes of The Love Boat (she played Kim Patterson), When The Whistle Blows (Lucy Davis), B.J And The Bear (Renee), and The Hardy Boys (George Fayne).
Horror fans may also recall her starring in Deadly Blessing (Vicky Anderson), a 1981 cult favorite from Wes Craven, the director of the iconic A Nightmare On Elm Street and Scream. Police Academy fans will also cherish her appearance in the sixth installment, City Under Siege, from 1989.
Tributes pour in
Susan is survived by her children: son Adam Josephs, daughter Samantha Mansfield, as well as her four grandchildren Oliver, Ruby, Riley, and Abigail. Touchingly, there is also her partner Al, her sister Linda, and her son and daughter-in-law, Adam Mansfield and Noel Josephs.
“Heartbroken,” a fan paid tribute on X/Twitter. “A pop culture legend whose iconic cheerleader literally polarized playgrounds across the world. The definitive Patty Simcox… she stole every scene, stealing our hearts – ensuring #GreaseIsTheWord always and forever.”
“Her legacy will forever be remembered,” another wrote. “Rest in peace, Susan.”
“My daughter has met a bunch of the cast over the years and Susan was a total sweetheart,” one shared their story, “even joking with her that she should ditch the Pink Ladies jacket and try out for cheerleading instead…”
Another praised the actress for her Grease role. “Thank you for making my teenage years so fun,” they wrote, “and see you in paradise!”
The family has asked that donations in her honor be made to Miami’s Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden.
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