Olivia Newton-John, known as “Sandy” in Grease, passed away Monday morning (August 8) surrounded by family and friends.
The late pop singer and actress had been battling breast cancer since 1992, announcing in 2017 that the cancer returned, metastasizing to the sacrum.
Olivia’s husband, 70-year-old John Easterling had hoped for her recovery, telling People exclusively, he believed the star could have a ‘success story’ stating, “We are not trying to be positive. We have an absolute knowingness that we can turn this around.”
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The star was an advocate for cancer research, having started a foundation in her name along with a research and wellness center in Australia.
Before Newton-John’s longtime cancer battle, the songstress had a successful career, scoring up to 10 hits on Billboard’s country charts, earning two No. 1 hit titles. Her single, “I Honestly Love You” won two Grammy Awards for record of the year and best female pop vocal performance. Olivia’s breakout in the movie scene followed, leaving her squeaky clean image behind for the role of Sandy in the classic musical, Grease.
Hollywood has already taken to social media to pay respects to the star. Good Morning America’s Robin Roberts, a breast cancer survivor tweeted, “Very sad news. Great admiration for how she bravely faced breast cancer. Condolences to her loving family and friends.”
Very sad news. Great admiration for how she bravely faced breast cancer. Condolences to her loving family and friends. 🙏🏾💕 https://t.co/O5xuNjbAx4
— Robin Roberts (@RobinRoberts) August 8, 2022
Actress Gabrielle Union also took to Twitter stating, “Sending so much love and prayers to a real gift of a woman and talent.”
"Grease" is my #1 movie of all time and made me a lifelong Olivia Newton John fan. Me and my sister watched Xanadu more times than I could count. Sending so much love and prayers to a real gift of a woman and talent. #RIPOliviaNewtonJohn 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 https://t.co/1M8lcVQuON
— Gabrielle Union (@itsgabrielleu) August 8, 2022
Olivia Newton-John is survived by her husband, daughter, Chloe Lattanzi, and extended family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time.
