Another beloved star from the 1978 classic musical has passed away.
"Grease" tells the story of Danny Zuko (John Travolta), a greaser, and Sandy Olsson (Olivia Newton-John), an Australian transfer student, whose summer fling turns into a high school romance.
More than four decades after its release, the film still enchants global audiences with its timeless mix of nostalgia, romance, and rock 'n' roll.
Susan Buckner, known for her role as Rydell High's cheerleader Patty Simcox, has died.
Susan Buckner Of "Grease" Fame Passes AwayIn recent years, the film's cast has seen the loss of several notable members, including Olivia Newton-John and Jeff Conaway.
Olivia Newton-John, celebrated as a four-time Grammy winner, gained fame with iconic songs like 'Physical'.
Susan Buckner Of "Grease" Fame Passes AwayHer career soared to new heights following her role in "Grease," and she often expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity.
Discussing the movie's likeability, Newton-John told Billboard: "I think the songs are timeless. They're fun and have great energy. The '50s-feel music has always been popular, and it's nostalgic for my generation; and then the young kids are rediscovering it every 10 years or so, it seems.
"People buying the album was a way for them to remember those feelings of watching the movie and feelings of that time period. I feel very grateful to be a part of this movie that's still loved so much."
Susan Buckner Of "Grease" Fame Passes AwayAccording to the BBC, Newton-John passed away from cancer at the age of 73 in 2022.
John Travolta, her co-star in "Grease," remarked that she "made all of our lives so much better."
Jeff Conaway portrayed Kenickie, Danny's best friend, and later appeared in TV series like "Taxi" and "Babylon 5."
Conaway passed away at the age of 60 in 2011, with his death deemed accidental due to a "major internal infection," per a coroner's report cited by The Hollywood Reporter.
Susan Buckner Of "Grease" Fame Passes AwayConaway struggled with drug and alcohol addiction throughout his life.
Conway's manager, Kathryn Boole, told the Associated Press: "It's sad that people remember his struggle with drugs… He has touched so many people."
The death of Susan Buckner has deeply saddened Grease fans.
Susan Buckner Of "Grease" Fame Passes AwayBefore her acting career, Buckner was a beauty pageant queen, clinching the Miss Washington title in 1971. She went on to represent her state in the national pageant the following year, reports The Guardian.
In "Grease," Buckner played Patty Simcox, a friend to Sandy Olsson as she starts at Rydell High.
Patty often becomes the butt of jokes from the Pink Ladies and the T-Birds throughout the film.
Beyond her role as Simcox in "Grease," Buckner also featured in several other TV shows and movies.
Buckner took on the role of the iconic Hollywood siren Jean Harlow, starring opposite Tommy Lee Jones in the 1977 CBS telefilm "The Amazing Howard Hughes."
After stepping away from the limelight, Buckner focused on her family life and shifted her career towards directing children's theater and teaching dance.
Susan Buckner Of "Grease" Fame Passes AwayMelissa Berthier, the publicist for Buckner's family, has confirmed that Buckner passed away at the age of 72.
"Susan died peacefully on May 2 surrounded by loved ones," she tells People.
Buckner's daughter, Samantha Mansfield, added: "The light she brought into every room will be missed forever. She was magic, and I was very lucky to call her my best friend."
A statement to the Los Angeles Times reads: "Susan will be remembered for her kindness, generosity and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others."
"Her effervescent spirit will continue to inspire generations of performers and fans alike."
The specific cause of Buckner's death has not been disclosed.
Buckner is survived by her children, Adam and Samantha; grandchildren Oliver, Riley, Abigail, and Ruby; sister Linda; daughter-in-law Noel, son-in-law Adam; and her longtime partner, Al.
Contributions in memory of Buckner can be made to the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden.
