With heavy hearts, we share the sad news of the passing of a beloved actress known for her iconic role in the classic film “Grease.” At the age of 72, she left an indelible mark on Hollywood and the hearts of countless fans around the world. Her remarkable talent, vibrant performances, and enduring legacy have touched many lives. We remember her not only for her memorable on-screen presence but also for the warmth and joy she brought to those who knew her. As we reflect on her life and career, we honor her enduring contributions to the world of entertainment.
On May 7, the entertainment world mourned the loss of beloved actress Susan Buckner. She was 72 years old. Many of us will fondly remember Buckner for her role as Patty Simcox, the cheerful cheerleader, in the cult classic Grease alongside the late Olivia Newton-John. Buckner’s infectious energy and unforgettable performance captured the hearts of audiences of all ages.
According to a statement released by the Buckner family, the actress peacefully passed away on May 2, surrounded by her loved ones. Melissa Berthier, a publicist for the family, shared, “Susan died peacefully on May 2 surrounded by loved ones.” Her daughter, Samantha Mansfield, expressed her deep grief, calling her mother her best friend and reminiscing about the light Susan brought into every room. “She was magic, and I was very lucky to call her my best friend,” Samantha said..
Before conquering the world of acting, Susan Buckner also found success as a pageant queen. In 1971, she was crowned Miss Washington and even went on to compete in the prestigious Miss America pageant, as reported by Deadline. After her pageant days, Buckner made her mark as one of The Golddiggers, an all-female singing and dancing group featured on The Dean Martin Show.
Later in life, Buckner dedicated herself to nurturing the next generation of actors. She became a director for the children’s theater at a Florida elementary school. Additionally, she taught dance at a gym in Coral Gables, inspiring countless young talents.
Susan Buckner leaves behind a lasting legacy. While her cause of death remains private, we can remember her for the joy she brought to our screens and the lives she touched. She is survived by her two children, Samantha and Adam, four cherished grandchildren, and her longtime partner, Al.
Let us honor the memory of Susan Buckner, a remarkable actress, and a cherished friend and mentor to many. May her light continue to shine on through her work and the memories she has gifted us.
‘Grease’ star Susan Buckner, who played Patty Simcox, dead at 72
Susan Buckner, best known for playing Patty Simcox in “Grease,” has died. She was 72.
“Susan died peacefully on May 2 surrounded by loved ones,” Melissa Berthier, a publicist for the family, told People in a statement Tuesday. No cause of death was provided.
Buckner’s daughter, Samantha Mansfield, also remembered the late actress.
“The light she brought into every room will be missed forever,” Mansfield told the outlet. “She was magic, and I was very lucky to call her my best friend.”
Simcox was one of Sandy’s [Olivia Newton-John] cheerleading friends in the 1978 cult musical classic.
Born in 1952 in Seattle, Buckner was crowned Miss Washington in 1971. She later joined “The Dean Martin Show” as one of the Golddiggers, an all-female singing and dancing group.
She went on to appear in the variety shows “The Mac Davis Show”, “Sonny and Cher” and “The Brady Bunch Variety Hour.”
Buckner also starred alongside John Travolta, Stockard Channing, Barry Pearl, Dinah Manoff, Michael Tucci and the late Jeff Conaway in “Grease.” Conaway died at 60 in May 2011. Newton-John passed away at 73 in August 2022 after a long battle with breast cancer.
Simcox had a famous cheer in the film: “Do the splits, give a yell! Show a little spirit for Old Rydell! Way to go, red and white! Go Rydell, fight, fight, fight!”
Buckner did not return for the sequel, “Grease 2,” which was released in 1982 and starred Michelle Pfeiffer and Maxwell Caulfield.
She appeared in shows like “Starsky & Hutch” and “The Love Boat” after finding fame from “Grease.”
Her final acting role was in the 1981 slasher film “Deadly Blessing.”
Buckner directed children’s theater and taught dance at a gym in Florida in her later years.
She is survived by Mansfield, son Adam Josephs, grandchildren Oliver, Riley, Abigail and Ruby, as well as her sister Linda, daughter-in-law Noel Josephs, son-in-law Adam Mansfield and longtime partner Al.
