‘Grease’ Star Olivia Newton-John Dies, Aged 73

‘Grease’ Star Olivia Newton-John Dies, Aged 73 CBS

Olivia Newton-John has passed away at the age of 73. The Grease star and singer of many of the ’70s and ’80s biggest hits is said to have passed away at her ranch in Southern California on Monday at the age of 73. Her death was announced by her husband, John Easterling.

  1. The announcement was made on Newton-John’s official Facebook page. It read: “Dame Olivia Newton-John (73) passed away peacefully at her Ranch in Southern California this morning, surrounded by family and friends. We ask that everyone please respect the family’s privacy during this very difficult time. … Olivia is survived by her husband John Easterling; daughter Chloe Lattanzi; sister Sarah Newton-John; brother Toby Newton-John; nieces and nephews Tottie, Fiona and Brett Goldsmith; Emerson, Charlie, Zac, Jeremy, Randall, and Pierz Newton-John; Jude Newton-Stock, Layla Lee; Kira and Tasha Edelstein; and Brin and Valerie Hall.”
  2. Newton-John battled breast cancer for more than 30 years. It’s believed it was this condition that caused her death. “Olivia has been a symbol of triumphs and hope for over 30 years sharing her journey with breast cancer. Her healing inspiration and pioneering experience with plant medicine continues with the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, dedicated to researching plant medicine and cancer. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any donations be made in her memory to the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund (ONJFoundationFund.org),” the Facebook announcement continued.
  3. Fans took to social media to express their sadness at her passing. They applauded Newton-John’s film and music work and lamented the loss of one of the world’s most legendary stars. “Such an amazing talent,” one remarked. The Sun’s Dan Wooton added: “An all time great. Forever a fighter. Forever Sandy. Lost to the world at just 73 after 30 years of battling breast cancer. What a sad day.” Even John Travolta took to social media to share his sadness, writing: “My dearest Olivia, you made all of our lives so much better. Your impact was incredible. I love you so much. We will see you down the road and we will all be together again. Yours from the first moment I saw you and forever!
    Your Danny, your John!”

She will certainly be missed.

This is a breaking story and will continue to be updated as details become available.

Jennifer Still is a writer and editor with more than 10 years of experience. The managing editor of Bolde, she has bylines in Vanity Fair, Business Insider, The New York Times, Glamour, Bon Appetit, and many more. You can follow her on Twitter @jenniferlstill
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