Susan Backlinie
Susan Backlinie made a lasting impression with her role as Chrissie Watkins in Steven Spielberg’s Jaws, delivering one of the most iconic opening scenes in horror history. Her portrayal as the swimmer terrorized by the great white shark set the tone for the entire film and remains a chilling touchstone for audiences. Though Backlinie’s career includes other appearances, including roles in Creature from Black Lake and some TV work, it is her visceral and unforgettable performance in Jaws that fans most vividly recall. Working under Spielberg’s direction, she brought authenticity and tension to a scene that has been endlessly analyzed and admired for how it builds suspense through a combination of acting and Spielberg’s masterful storytelling. Backlinie’s brief but powerful contribution helped elevate Jaws into a cultural phenomenon, cementing her place in film history largely on the impact of a single character moment that still resonates decades later.
Browse 1 HD movie screencap gallery featuring Susan Backlinie, including Jaws.
