Actress Susan Buckner, best known for her role as Patty Simcox in the iconic film “Grease,” has passed away at the age of 72. Buckner died peacefully on May 2, surrounded by her family.
In the 1978 film adaptation of the highly popular musical, Buckner portrayed Patty Simcox, a perky and enthusiastic cheerleader at Rydell High School. Starring alongside John Travolta as Danny Zuko and Olivia Newton-John as Sandy Olsson, Buckner’s character added humor and vibrancy to the high school setting, contributing to the film’s enduring charm.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Susan Buckner, best known to the moviegoing public as memorable, bubbly cheerleader Patty Simcox,” Buckner’s family said in a statement, acknowledging her iconic role in “Grease.”
Set in the 1950s, “Grease” follows the lives of high school teenagers navigating love, friendships, and the challenges of youth. The film’s music, featuring hits like “You’re the One That I Want,” “Summer Nights,” and “Hopelessly Devoted to You,” became iconic and contributed to “Grease” becoming a cultural phenomenon. The film’s ensemble cast, including the Pink Ladies and the T-Birds, added depth and humor to the storyline, making it a beloved classic for generations.
Reflecting on her mother’s legacy, Samantha Mansfield, Buckner’s daughter, told PEOPLE, “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.”
Beyond her role in “Grease,” Buckner had notable television appearances, including her time on “The Brady Bunch Variety Hour” in the 1970s. She also guest-starred on various TV shows during the 1970s and 1980s, such as “Police Woman,” “Starsky and Hutch,” and “The Love Boat.”
While Buckner’s career in the entertainment industry waned in later years, her portrayal of Patty Simcox in “Grease” remains her most memorable contribution to popular culture, leaving a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.
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