Susan Backlinie, the actress and stunt woman known for her role as the first shark attack victim in the opening scene of the blockbuster movie “Jaws,” passed away at the age of 77 due to a heart attack at her home in California. In the iconic scene, she played a skinny-dipper named Chrissie Watkins who is violently attacked by an unseen great white shark while swimming at night. For the scene, Ms. Backlinie was secured to a harness and wore jeans with metal plates stitched into the sides to create the effect of being pulled through the water. Director Steven Spielberg aimed to create an authentic surprise from her, resulting in a terrifying and realistic portrayal.
Mr. Spielberg described the scene as one of the most dangerous stunts to film as Ms. Backlinie was tugged left and right by multiple individuals on ropes in order to simulate the shark’s movements. Additionally, her screams were enhanced by him pouring water down her throat while she screamed, a method now known as waterboarding. Despite the challenges of filming such a intense sequence, Ms. Backlinie’s performance effectively captivated audiences and set the tone for the rest of the movie.
After “Jaws,” Ms. Backlinie continued to work in the film industry, appearing in movies such as “Day of the Animals” (1977) and Jim Henson’s “The Great Muppet Caper” (1981), as well as an episode of the television series “The Fall Guy” in 1982. However, it was her role in the opening scene of “Jaws” that she would be best remembered for, often receiving comments from fans who were scared to swim due to the impact of that scene. Her portrayal of Chrissie Watkins left a lasting impression on moviegoers and solidified her place in cinematic history.
Born in West Palm Beach, Fla., Ms. Backlinie’s early background as a swimmer and cheerleader contributed to her ability to effectively perform the physically demanding scenes required in “Jaws.” Her experience as a mermaid performer at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park also prepared her for the water-based roles she would go on to play in her career, showcasing her versatility as a performer. After moving to California, she continued to work in the entertainment industry and collaborated with Mr. Spielberg once again in 1979’s “1941,” where she parodied her character from “Jaws” in a scene involving a submarine periscope.
Throughout her career, Ms. Backlinie’s talent and dedication to her craft were evident in her diverse roles on screen. Her contribution to the horror and comedy genres, as well as her willingness to take on physically demanding stunts, showcased her range as an actress and stunt performer. Her legacy as the first victim in “Jaws” lives on through the impact of that iconic scene, which continues to be remembered and referenced in popular culture. Ms. Backlinie’s ability to evoke fear and suspense through her performance has solidified her status as a memorable figure in the history of cinema.
