American actress and stuntwoman Susan Backlinie achieved cinematic immortality at age 27 when she portrayed the first shark attack victim in the opening sequence of Steven Spielberg's 1975 blockbuster Jaws. Her performance as Christine 'Chrissie' set the tone for one of the most influential thriller films in motion picture history.
The terrifying opening scene, which features Backlinie's character swimming alone at night before being attacked by the unseen predator, remains one of the most memorable moments in cinema. Her realistic portrayal of fear and panic helped establish the film's suspenseful atmosphere and demonstrated her skills as both an actress and stuntwoman.
Backlinie appeared alongside notable actors Richard Dreyfuss, Roy Scheider, and Lorraine Gary in the film that would go on to define the summer blockbuster genre and establish Spielberg as a major directorial force in Hollywood.
Following her breakthrough role in Jaws, Backlinie continued working in the film industry, appearing in productions including Day of the Animals, 1941, and The Great Muppet Caper. Her career demonstrated versatility across different genres and showcased her commitment to physically demanding roles.
Backlinie passed away in 2024, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond her brief but unforgettable screen time. Her contribution to Jaws helped create a cultural phenomenon that continues to influence filmmakers and captivate audiences more than five decades after the film's original release. The opening scene she brought to life remains a masterclass in building tension and establishing stakes, ensuring her place in film history.