Susan Backlinie is widely recognized for her iconic role as the shark’s first victim in Jaws. However, her career extends far beyond that unforgettable scene.
As an actress and stuntwoman, Susan built a career in Hollywood that led to financial success.
In 2024, we explore Susan Backlinie net worth, delve into her career achievements, and uncover the various sources of her income.
Join me, Andomoney, as I take a closer look at how she earned her wealth through her work in Hollywood and beyond.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Susan Jane Backlinie |
| Popular Name | Susan Backlinie |
| Gender | Female |
| Birth Date | September 1, 1946 |
| Age | 77 (Died: May 11, 2024) |
| Parents | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Birthplace | Miami, Florida |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | N/A |
| Education | Forest Hill High School |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Harvey Swindall (m. 1995–2024), William Seale |
| Children | 1 Daughter |
| Dating | N/A |
| Net Worth | $3.5 Million (2024) |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Stunt Work |
| Height | 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m) |
What is the Net Worth Of Susan Backlinie in 2024?
In 2024, Susan Backlinie’s net worth was estimated at $3.5 million. This figure highlights her successful career as both an actress and a stuntwoman.
Her portrayal of Chrissie Watkins in Jaws made a significant impact on her finances. When compared to other celebrities in similar fields, her earnings are impressive but modest in the grand scheme of Hollywood.
Here’s a list of other related people and entities in her network:
- Steven Spielberg
- Richard Dreyfuss
- Jaws (1975)
- Hollywood
- 1941 (film)
- Chrissie Watkins
- Harvey Swindall
- Henry Backlinie
- Day of the Animals
- The Towering Inferno
If you’re curious about who the wealthiest actresses are today, you can explore the highest-paid actresses in Hollywood.
Susan Backlinie Salary and Finance Overview
How She Built Her Wealth and Career Success
Susan Backlinie’s wealth primarily stems from her acting and stunt career. Her first significant role as Chrissie Watkins in Jaws was a major contributor to her financial standing.
At the time, the film industry was undergoing massive shifts, with blockbuster movies becoming an international phenomenon.
Being part of Jaws, one of the first true blockbusters, gave Backlinie a financial boost. The movie’s success opened doors to other acting and stunt opportunities, although none reached the same financial impact as Jaws.
Exploring Her Stuntwoman Career and Financial Achievements
Backlinie was more than just an actress—her skills as a stuntwoman helped her earn recognition in Hollywood.
Performing dangerous stunts in movies like The Towering Inferno required both physical prowess and technical expertise.The stunt industry, while rewarding, is not often as financially lucrative as lead acting roles.
However, her dedication to perfecting her craft and her association with major directors like Steven Spielberg helped her gain a foothold in the industry, which contributed to her salary.
Film and Media Appearances That Boosted Her Earnings
In addition to her iconic scene in Jaws, Backlinie’s other film appearances also added to her earnings. Films like Day of the Animals and 1941 expanded her acting portfolio, and her brief stints in these projects contributed to her overall financial growth.
While these films did not replicate the massive success of Jaws, they still brought her financial rewards and kept her relevant in Hollywood.
Personal Life and Financial Contributions from Relationships
She was married twice, first to Henry Backlinie and later to Harvey Swindall. Her marriages also played a part in her financial life, particularly in managing shared finances with her spouses.
Although neither of her husbands were high-profile celebrities, their support and partnerships likely contributed to a stable financial life.
Additionally, Backlinie was a dedicated mother, which influenced how she managed her wealth and career decisions later in life.
Post-Hollywood Career and Financial Ventures
After her acting career slowed down, Susan Backlinie found a second career as a computer accountant. While this shift may seem drastic, it gave her financial stability outside of Hollywood.
This change in career trajectory allowed her to maintain her lifestyle and secure her finances well into retirement.
Despite stepping away from the limelight, Backlinie remained a popular figure at Jaws-related events, where she connected with fans and even swam with sharks in Australia.
These activities, while not directly tied to her financial gains, helped keep her connected to her Hollywood roots.
Legacy and Financial Impact After Her Passing
Following her death in 2024, it’s likely that her estate will continue to benefit from residual earnings from Jaws and her other film work.
Additionally, her participation in industry events like JawsFest helps keep her legacy alive, ensuring that future generations recognize her contributions to the world of film.
FAQs About Susan Backlinie
How did Susan Backlinie get famous?
She became famous for her role as Chrissie Watkins, the first shark attack victim in Jaws.
What is her full name?
Her full name is Susan Jane Myers.
What were her most famous roles?
Her most famous role is Chrissie Watkins in Jaws. She also appeared in 1941 and Day of the Animals.
Did she perform her own stunts?
Yes, she was known for performing her own stunts, including in Jaws.
What was her career after acting?
After acting, she became a computer accountant and continued attending Jaws-related events.
Was she married?
Yes, she was married twice—first to Henry Backlinie, then to Harvey Swindall.
Did Susan Backlinie have children?
Yes, she had one daughter.
Where did she live later in life?
She lived in Ventura, California, until her death.
When did Susan Backlinie die?
She passed away on May 11, 2024, at the age of 77.
Conclusion
Susan Backlinie lived an extraordinary life both in and outside of Hollywood. If you’d like to explore more financial insights about famous figures, leave a comment or visit andomoney.com for the latest updates!
