Susan Jane Backlinie was an American actress and stuntwoman best known for her role as Chrissie Watkins, the first shark attack victim in Steven Spielberg's 1975 blockbuster film Jaws. This iconic opening scene quickly established the film's tone of suspense and terror.
September 1, 1946: Birth of Susan Backlinie
1964: High School Graduation
Susan Backlinie graduates from Forest Hill High School.
January 1973: Penthouse Pictorial
Susan Backlinie appeared in a topless pictorial called "The Lady and the Lion" in Penthouse magazine.
1974: Stunt Work in The Towering Inferno
Susan Backlinie performed a stunt in the film The Towering Inferno involving a falling elevator.
1974: Casting for Jaws
Susan Backlinie was cast as the first shark attack victim in Jaws after submitting a nude photo and showcasing her swimming skills. The iconic scene took three days to shoot, and her screams were recorded later in the studio.
1975: Jaws Release
Susan Backlinie starred as Chrissie Watkins in Steven Spielberg's Jaws.
February 1977: Mayfair Appearance
Susan Backlinie appeared nude in Mayfair magazine.
1977: Day of the Animals Release
Susan Backlinie appeared in the film Day of the Animals.
1979: 1941 Release
Susan Backlinie appeared in Steven Spielberg's 1941, parodying her role in Jaws.
1981: The Great Muppet Caper Appearance
Susan Backlinie performed a water ballet with Miss Piggy in The Great Muppet Caper.
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