Olivia Newton-John, a four-time Grammy winner and star of “Grease,” has passed away. She was 73.
On Monday, August 8, her husband John Easterling issued a statement confirming her passing. He said she had “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,” he added. No cause of death was revealed, but a source told TMZ, that “After a 30-year cancer journey, she lost her battle to metastatic breast cancer.”
“Olivia has been a symbol of triumphs and hope for over 30 years sharing her journey with breast cancer,” his statement continued.
“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 @onjfoundation.”
The actress leaves behind her husband, her daughter Chloe Lattanzi, her siblings Sarah and Toby, as well as her nieces and nephews.
John first achieved fame in the US as a country music performer, but after the 1978 release of “Grease,” in which she co-starred with John Travolta as good girl Sandy, her career took off. The movie and the soundtrack both enjoyed tremendous success.