Olivia Newton-John’s ‘Grease’ Co-Stars and Fellow Entertainers Mourn Her Death

August 9, 2022, 10:04am

Fans, friends and colleagues pulled out all the stops to memorialize Olivia Newton-John on Monday night after news of her passing broke. Newton-John’s husband, John Easterling, announced her death on Monday via her own social media channels. Before long, most platforms were filled with tributes to Newton-John and her work.

“Dame Olivia Newton-John 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,” Easterling wrote. “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 [The Olivia Newton-John Foundation].”

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Newton-John’s impact on the entertainment industry and pop culture, in general, would be hard to overstate. The 73-year-old was equally acclaimed as a musician and actress and is perhaps best known for musical roles that combined the two including the 1978 film adaptation of Grease.

Newton-John was also beloved on a personal level, including by fans with whom she formed a personal connection. Read on to see some poignant tributes to Newton-John and her work over the years.

John Travolta

Many fans felt their grief the hardest when they saw John Travolta’s tribute to his frequent collaborator on Monday night.

Dionne Warwick

Dionne Warwick’s personal tribute to Newton-John also drew some tearful responses from fans.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union’s post seemed to sum up the feelings of younger performers who idolized Newton-John as children.

Marx Family

Newton-John’s friends Richard and Daisy Fuentes Marx shared touching tributes to her and photos that have not been widely seen by fans before. Many commenters were pleased to see these photos of Newton-John smiling throughout the years.

Highlights

Fans like Andy Cohen reflected on Newton-John’s work in light of this difficult news. They highlighted a favorite performance and took this opportunity to look back on what she had accomplished and what she had shared with the world.

More Friends

Plenty of other friends from the entertainment industry shared personal love notes for Newton-John.

James Gunn

Filmmaker James Gunn shared a surprising handful of connections to Newton-John in his own tribute.

Reputation

Finally, some – including Mia Farrow – remarked on Newton-John’s uniquely positive reputation in the entertainment world, saying that they had heard about her kindness without ever meeting her.