Lasting Legacy of Olivia Newton-John: A Look at the Influence on History

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 29, 2025

A closer look at the lasting mark left by Olivia Newton-John—a timeline of influence.

Dame Olivia Newton-John (1948-2022) was a highly successful British-Australian singer and actress. Renowned for her iconic role in the film "Grease" and numerous hit songs like "Physical," she sold over 100 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time and the highest-selling female Australian recording artist. Her career spanned decades and included accolades such as multiple Grammy Awards and American Music Awards. She was also a dedicated activist for cancer awareness, having battled the disease for many years.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

1989: "Talk It Over" becomes a hit

In 1989, the song "Can't We Talk It Over in Bed", originally recorded by Olivia Newton-John, was released by Grayson Hugh as "Talk It Over" and became a top-20 pop hit.

1998: "Grease" re-release for 20th anniversary

In 1998, Grease was re-released for its 20th anniversary and ranked as the second highest-grossing film behind Titanic in its opening weekend.

2007: 'Xanadu' becomes a Broadway show

In 2007, the film Xanadu, in which Olivia Newton-John starred, became the basis for a Broadway show that ran for more than 500 performances and was nominated for four Tony Awards including Best Musical.

2008: "Physical" ranked among top songs

In 2008, Billboard ranked the song "Physical" by Olivia Newton-John as No. 6 among all songs that charted in the 50-year history of the Hot 100.

2010: "Physical" ranked as most popular single about sex

In 2010, Billboard magazine ranked "Physical" as the most popular single ever about sex.

2018: Publication of Don't Stop Believin'

In 2018, Olivia Newton-John published her autobiography, Don't Stop Believin'.

November 2019: Julien's Auctions Sale

On 2 November 2019, Julien's Auctions held an auction of Olivia Newton-John's memorabilia, raising $2.4 million, with her Grease outfit fetching $405,700. Her black skintight pants were bought by Sara Blakely for $162,000, and her leather jacket was returned to her after being purchased for $243,200, with all proceeds donated to her Cancer Wellness and Research Centre in Australia.

December 2019: Becoming a Dame

In December 2019, Olivia Newton-John expressed gratitude for being recognized by the United Kingdom upon receiving the title of Dame.

August 2022: "Grease" reappearance in cinemas after death

Following her death in August 2022, AMC announced that Grease would reappear in some of its cinemas over the weekend and that a portion of the proceeds would go to breast cancer research.

August 2022: Death of Olivia Newton-John

Olivia Newton-John died on 8 August 2022, at the age of 73, at her home in the Santa Ynez Valley of California. Tributes were paid by many celebrities.

September 2022: Memorial service

In September 2022, Olivia Newton-John's family held a "small and very private" memorial service in California for the singer, who asked to be cremated and have her ashes scattered in Byron Bay, on her Santa Ynez ranch, and "in other places that I love".

2022: Tributes and Commemorations

In 2022, following Olivia Newton-John's death, Pink performed a commemorative cover at the American Music Awards, and a tribute at the ARIA Music Awards featured performances by Natalie Imbruglia, Peking Duk, and Tones and I.

February 2023: Australian Memorial Service

On 26 February 2023, Olivia Newton-John's Australian memorial service, was held at Hamer Hall in Melbourne and included eulogies from her widower and daughter, as well as video tributes from various artists.