The four-time Grammy winner and prominent cancer research advocate has bravely battled cancer since 1992.
While she grew up in Australia when her family moved to Melbourne when she was just five years old, Olivia Newton-John was born in Cambridge, England in 1948. It was her song “Let Me Be There” in 1973 that propelled her to fame in the US after making the top-10 list in both adult contemporary and country charts. Following this five years later is her role as “Sandy” in the phenomenal movie, Grease where she played John Travolta’s love interest which catapulted both actors’ careers to superstardom.
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Newton-John’s husband, John Easterling, made this statement on Instagram:
“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.”
Easterling adds, “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.”
Countless celebrities have expressed their love for Newton-John since news of her passing quickly spread online. Messages have poured in from Lea Salonga, George Takei, Marlee Matlin, Daniel Dad Kim, among others.
Lea Salonga says, “Rest In Peace, Olivia Newton-John. Hers was one of the voices of my childhood. Deepest condolences to everyone she loved and loved her.”
John Travolta’s loving tribute says, “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!”
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Banner photos via Instagram @therealonj.
