Olivia Newton-John, a true music superstar who first gained prominence in the 70’s, passed away this week at the age of 73.
The Australian-born singer, actress, breast cancer survivor and advocate, who was given the British title Dame, "passed away peacefully at her Ranch in Southern California this morning, surrounded by family and friends," according to a statement on Facebook from her husband, John Easterling.
Olivia’s family has asked that their privacy be respected during this time of mourning for their family.In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that any donations be made in Olivia’s memory to the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund (ONJFoundationFund.org), which is dedicated to researching the use of plant medicine in the fight against cancer.
Olivia is survived by her husband; daughter Chloe Lattanzi; sister Sarah Newton-John and brother Toby Newton-John, along with several nieces and nephews.
Olivia Newton-John first arrived in the early 70’s as a country-pop crossover artist before turning actress in Grease with John Travolta in 1978.
After overcoming breast cancer back in 1992, Olivia became a women’s health advocate and opened a wellness center in Australia. Olivia first captured the spotlight in the U.S. with a several of country-pop hits including Bob Dylan's "If Not for You."She then hit #1 with "I Honestly Love You" and won the Grammy for Record of the Year.
Olivia had gained a real “girl next door” image much like Doris Day had done two decades earlier. That helped her land the role as Sandy in Grease with lifelong friend John Travolta. The movie dominated the box office in the summer of 1978 and landed three songs in the top 5 that year.
Olivia would go on major chart success as a pop star in the 80’s with the huge hit “Physical,” “A Little More Love,” “Magic” and “Xanadu” from the movie she starred in opposite of Gene Kelly.
In the summer of 2019, Olivia acknowledged that she had Stage 4 cancer. Olivia Newton-John’s final recording was released last year. The single “Window in the Wall” was recorded with her daughter Chloe. The song reflected Olivia’s desire for unity. Its video topped the iTunes pop music video chart the week of its release.
Get more on Olivia Newton-John on iHeartRadio, keyword Olivia Newton-John.
[Source: Classic Hits Today]