Susan Backlinie

Susan Backlinie Bio

September 1, 1946 / Virgo / Age 78

Susan Backlinie is an American-born Penthouse model, adult model and actress. She was born as Susan Jane Swindall on September 1, 1946 in Ventura, California, United States. During her modeling career, she was sometimes credited as S.J. Swindall, S.J. Backlinie or Susan J. Backlinie.

Susan Backlinie was a Penthouse Star and featured model in January 1973. Her measurements are 33-24-34. Susan Backlinie has seductive blue eyes, honey blond hair, and natural breasts.

Susan Backlinie gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of Chrissie Watkins, the first victim of the menacing shark in Steven Spielberg's iconic film "Jaws" (1975).

Beyond her memorable performance in "Jaws," Backlinie's career encompassed stunt work, particularly specializing in aquatic scenes, and animal training. Currently residing in Ventura, California, she has transitioned to a career as a computer accountant.

Backlinie's pivotal scene in "Jaws" took three intense days to film, during which she was harnessed for safety as the crew worked to capture the harrowing effects desired. Despite rumors suggesting otherwise, her visceral reaction and screams were not a result of harm from the harness; rather, they were authentic responses to the unpredictability of the underwater rigging. Her convincing portrayal garnered praise, notably from co-star Richard Dreyfuss, who was genuinely terrified by her performance.

In a playful nod to her role in "Jaws," Backlinie also appeared in Spielberg's film "1941," where she humorously reenacted her iconic scene, this time being "picked up" by the periscope of a Japanese submarine. Despite the film's mixed reception, her cameo is often highlighted as a standout moment.

Additionally, Backlinie featured in the 1977 film "Day of the Animals," a movie often likened to "Jaws" due to its theme of nature turning hostile.

Outside of her film career, Backlinie graced the pages of Penthouse in a pictorial titled "The Lady and the Lion" in January 1973. Notably, her involvement in the adult magazine predated her nude submission to the "Jaws" production team, which ultimately led to her casting as Chrissie. She also appeared nude in the February 1977 issue of Mayfair magazine.