Grease fans have been left heartbroken following the news that actress Susan Buckner, who took on the role of Patty Simcox in the 1978 classic, has died.
Patty is featured throughout the iconic musical as a pal to Olivia Newton-John's Sandy Olsson, taking part in several of the musical numbers.
Melissa Berthier, a publicist for the Buckner family, confirmed the news on Tuesday evening, saying in a statement: "Susan died peacefully on May 2 surrounded by loved ones."
No cause of death has been confirmed at the time of writing.
Buckner's daughter Samantha Mansfield also said: "She was magic. She was my best friend. And I will miss her every day.
"I was lucky I had such a lighting rod of a mother and now I have her as an angel."
Grease: Susan Buckner performed alongside Olivia Newton-John in the 1978 classic
GREASE
She also added in a separate quote to PEOPLE: "The light she brought into every room will be missed forever.
"She was magic, and I was very lucky to call her my best friend."
After the success of Grease, the 1980s saw Buckner leave Hollywood behind her so she could focus on raising a family.
She is survived by her two children, Adam Josephs and Samantha Mansfield, as well as 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.
Forever grateful for Susan Buckner's unforgettable portrayal of Patty Simcox. Rest in peace to a Grease legend. 🙌 pic.twitter.com/1VJpUHo694
— Grease the Musical (@Grease_UK) May 7, 2024
Following the news of her death, social media was flooded with tributes from Grease fans across the globe.
One person penned on X, formerly Twitter: "Sending love to the family and friends of Susan Buckner, who played Patty Simcox in 'Grease'.
"She sadly passed away at the age of 72. In her later years, she devoted her time to directing children’s theater and taught dance at a gym in FL. She was the most, to say the least."
The Grease the Musical X account added: "Forever grateful for Susan Buckner's unforgettable portrayal of Patty Simcox. Rest in peace to a Grease legend."
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Susan Buckner has died at the age of 78
GETTY/GREASE
"This one hurts," a third account said. "Susan Buckner mostly known as Patty Simcox, rest in peace beautiful angel."
And a fourth weighed in: "I feel this one. RIP Patty Simcox/Susan Buckner. She was the MOST. #Grease."
