When Fashion Meets Fright: The Story of Susan Backlinie, the Woman Who Survived a Broken Jaw in Jaws

The 1975 blockbuster film Jaws is known for its thrilling scenes and heart-pumping action. But did you know that one of its actresses, Susan Backlinie, suffered a potentially career-ending injury while filming? Backlinie, who played the role of Chrissie Watkins, the unfortunate swimmer who becomes the great white shark's first victim, experienced a real-life horror when she broke her jaw during the filming of the iconic opening scene.

From Fashion Model to Frightened Actress

Before her breakout role in Jaws, Backlinie was a successful fashion model. Her experience in front of the camera and her natural beauty made her a great fit for the role of Chrissie. However, her modeling background didn't prepare her for the intensity of the film's stunts. During the filming of the opening scene, Backlinie was required to swim and struggle in the water while being pulled by a cable simulating the shark's attack. Unfortunately, the forces were too strong, and she ended up breaking her jaw.

The Road to Recovery

The incident left Backlinie with a broken jaw, which required surgery and a long recovery period. Fans might wonder, do broken jaws heal themselves? The answer is no; in most cases, a broken jaw requires medical intervention, including surgery and immobilization, to heal properly. Backlinie's injury could have ended her career, but she persevered and returned to acting after her recovery.

The interview that Revealed it All

In a rare Susan Backlinie interview, the actress shared her harrowing experience on the set of Jaws. She recalled the accident, the subsequent surgery, and the challenges she faced during her recovery. The interview offered a unique glimpse into the making of the film and the price Backlinie paid for her role in the iconic horror movie. Category: #Entertainment