Actress, singer and activist Olivia Newton-John died at the age of 73 on August 8 in Southern California. Now Hollywood is reacting to the death of the “Grease” goddess. Her co-star and good friend John Travolta was the first to speak out on Instagram.
“My dear Olivia, you have made all of our lives so much better,” the actor wrote in his social media post. Her influence was “incredible”. “I love you so much. We will see each other at the end of the journey and then be reunited. I’ve been yours since the moment I first saw you. Your Danny, your John!”
After Travolta posted his memory of Newton-John online, other Hollywood stars began reaching out as well. Marlee Matin, who became the first deaf actress to win an Oscar, wrote of how dismayed she was to hear of the Grease star’s death.
I am SO saddened at the news of the passing of Olivia Newton John. I remember being so star struck when I met her at my first Hollywood gathering for Paramount. She was the sweetest and brightest light and I loved getting to know her on “It’s My Party.” RIP dear, sweet Olivia. pic.twitter.com/4FFgolVQNk
— Marlee Matlin (@MarleeMatlin) August 8, 2022
Guardians of the Galaxy director James Gunn called Olivia Newton-John his “first love” as a young boy. “May you rest in peace,” he wrote.
Really sad to hear about the passing of Olivia Newton-John. My first real crush as a kid. I loved Grease & her music & I coincidentally also bought & lived in for a while the wonderful home she built in Malibu. May she rest in peace. ❤️ https://t.co/gP10SJWqFZ
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) August 8, 2022
“We lost a great, iconic artist at the age of 73, far too soon,” commented George Takei. “I’m sure she’s with the big Xanadu now,” he joked, alluding to Newton-John’s cult film Xanadu.
We have lost a great, iconic artist in Olivia Newton John, gone too soon from us at age 73. I trust she is now in the great Xanadu beyond. Know that we are forever hopelessly devoted to you, Olivia. Rest in song and mirth.
— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) August 8, 2022