Susan Backlinie, the actress and stunt woman who famously portrayed the first shark attack victim in the iconic movie “Jaws,” has passed away at the age of 77. Her chilling performance as Chrissie Watkins, the skinny-dipper who meets a gruesome end in the opening scene of the 1975 blockbuster, left a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.
Ms. Backlinie’s agent, Sean Clark, confirmed that she died at her home in California from a heart attack. Her portrayal of the terrifying shark attack in “Jaws” is etched in cinematic history, with director Steven Spielberg orchestrating a harrowing sequence that kept viewers on the edge of their seats.
In an interview with The Palm Beach Post, Ms. Backlinie revealed the behind-the-scenes details of filming the intense scene. Secured to a harness and wearing jeans with metal plates stitched into the sides, she was tethered to a line anchored to the ocean floor to create the illusion of being pulled underwater by a great white shark.
Mr. Spielberg’s vision for the scene was to evoke genuine fear and surprise from Ms. Backlinie, ensuring a realistic and unforgettable performance. The director famously told her, “When your scene is done, I want everyone under the seats with the popcorn and bubble gum.” And indeed, they achieved just that.
Despite the dangers involved in filming the scene, Ms. Backlinie’s commitment to her craft and willingness to push boundaries earned her praise from her co-stars and crew. Richard Dreyfuss, who played oceanographer Matt Hooper in “Jaws,” commended her for her dedication to creating a truly terrifying moment on screen.
Following her memorable role in “Jaws,” Ms. Backlinie continued to work in the film industry, appearing in various movies and television shows. However, it was her portrayal of Chrissie Watkins that solidified her legacy as a talented actress and stunt performer.
In her own words, Ms. Backlinie reflected on the impact of her performance, sharing how fans often approached her at conventions to express their fear of swimming after watching “Jaws.” Her ability to evoke such strong emotions from audiences is a testament to her skill and dedication to her craft.
As we remember Susan Backlinie for her unforgettable role in “Jaws,” her legacy lives on in the hearts of moviegoers who were captivated by her chilling performance. She will always be remembered as the actress who kept us out of the water.
