Susan Backlinie, the actress and stuntwoman who delivered the iconic opening scene in Steven Spielberg’s 1975 blockbuster “Jaws,” passed away on May 11, 2024, at the age of 77. While her on-screen demise sent shivers down spines for decades, her life story goes beyond that chilling scream.

From California Girl to Hollywood Hopeful

Born Susan Jane Backlinie in 1946, she grew up in Ventura, California, surrounded by the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. This connection to the water would foreshadow both her most famous role and a lifelong passion. Details about her early life are relatively scarce, but it’s clear she harbored dreams of Hollywood.

Making a Splash in “Jaws”

Backlinie’s big break came in 1974 when she landed the role of Chrissie Watkins in “Jaws.” The film, based on Peter Benchley’s novel, tells the story of a killer shark terrorizing a seaside community. Backlinie’s character, Chrissie, is the unfortunate first victim, enjoying a late-night swim before a brutal attack sends the film into high gear.

While the scene itself utilized a mechanical shark and clever camera work, filming wasn’t without its challenges. Backlinie, a natural swimmer, reportedly had to perform the underwater portions where Chrissie is circled by the unseen predator. The iconic scream that pierces the night air was entirely hers, a bloodcurdling sound that epitomized the film’s terror.

More Than Just a Scream

Despite the fame garnered from that single scene, Backlinie’s career never quite reached the heights some might expect. She continued to act throughout the 1970s and 80s, appearing in shows like “Charlie’s Angels” and “Fantasy Island.” However, her roles were often small, and “Jaws” remained her most recognizable work.

However, Backlinie never seemed to harbor any bitterness. She embraced her “Jaws” legacy, becoming a beloved guest at fan conventions and “JawsFest” events. Audiences appreciated her genuine personality and willingness to share stories from the set.

A Life Beyond the Screen

Beyond Hollywood, Backlinie lived a full and varied life. She was married twice and had a daughter. Later in life, she worked as a computer accountant, showcasing her adaptability and desire to explore different paths.

Perhaps most surprisingly, Backlinie remained an avid scuba diver. Despite the association with the film that made her famous, she wasn’t afraid to venture back into the water, even diving with sharks off the coast of Australia. This fact speaks volumes about her courage and love for the ocean.

A Legacy of Terror and Triumph

Susan Backlinie’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of “Jaws” fans everywhere. Her scream is forever etched in cinematic history, a chilling reminder of the film’s enduring power. But beyond the scream, there’s a story of a woman who carved her own path, embraced her legacy, and never let fear hold her back.

Remembering Susan Backlinie

While details of a memorial service haven’t been made public, fans can honor her memory by revisiting “Jaws” and appreciating the impact she had on the film. Beyond that, her story reminds us to embrace challenges, never lose our sense of adventure, and find joy in the things that scare us the most.