Susan Backlinie, known for her iconic role as the first victim in the 1975 blockbuster “Jaws,” has passed away at the age of 77 in her California home, as confirmed by her agent. The news of her death was initially reported by The Daily Jaws website. Backlinie’s memorable appearance in Steven Spielberg’s classic begins with her character, Chrissie Watkins, running along the beach before diving into the water for a skinny dip. However, her peaceful swim turns into a nightmare as she is violently attacked by an unseen great white shark, setting the tone for the suspenseful thriller.
Before her acting debut in “Jaws,” Backlinie had been a champion swimmer, a skill that was crucial for her role in the film. Spielberg, known for his meticulous direction, instructed her to deliver a performance that would leave the audience gripping their seats in fear. In a 2015 interview with The Palm Beach Post, Backlinie recalled Spielberg’s directive: “When your scene is done, I want everyone under the seats with the popcorn and bubblegum.” Reflecting on her performance, she remarked, “I think we did that.”
Spielberg himself acknowledged the intensity of Backlinie’s sequence, labeling it “one of the most dangerous” stunts he had ever directed. In the documentary “Jaws: The Inside Story,” he described how Backlinie was pulled by a team of men on ropes, simulating the force of the shark’s attack. Despite the risks involved, Backlinie’s portrayal of Chrissie Watkins remains etched in cinematic history as one of the most memorable opening scenes in film.
Following her breakout role in “Jaws,” Backlinie collaborated with Spielberg once again in the 1979 parody war film “1941,” where she humorously spoofed her character from “Jaws.” Her contributions to cinema, particularly her unforgettable performance in the iconic shark thriller, have left an indelible mark on audiences and filmmakers alike.
