Olivia Newton-John dead: Grease star dies 'peacefully' aged 73

ok.co.uk:

Actress and singer Olivia Newton-John has died at the age of 73. Her husband, John Easterling, announced via her official Facebook page that Olivia had passed away peacefully at her Southern California ranch in the early hours of Monday 8 Aug, after battling cancer on and off for 30 years.The statement read: "Dame Olivia Newton-John passed away peacefully at her Ranch in Southern California this morning, surrounded by family and friends.

We ask that everyone please respect the family’s privacy during this very difficult time. "Olivia has been a symbol of triumphs and hope for over 30 years sharing her journey with breast cancer.

Her healing inspiration and pioneering experience with plant medicine continues with the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, dedicated to researching plant medicine and cancer. "In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any donations be made in her memory to the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund (ONJFoundationFund.org)." Olivia was best known to most as Sandy in the hit musical film Grease opposite John Travolta, which spawned several hit tracks including Hopelessly Devoted to You and You're The One That I Want.The film catapulted the Australian singer to worldwide stardom, with it becoming the biggest-grossing musical film ever at the time, and was so popular it was developed into a stage musical which is still incredibly running today.

Olivia also had several hit singles, including her biggest to date, Physical, which was released in 1981. She was an incredibly popular figure on both sides of the pond, having been born to Welsh and Irish parents and brought up in the UK until the age of 6 before emigrating to Melbourne.