Australian-English singer Olivia Newton-John, star of the hit musical film "Grease" and also brought "hugot" songs to Filipino fans, passed away at her ranch in Southern California on Monday, Aug. 8, following a 30-year-old battle with breast cancer. She was 73.
Her demise was announced by her husband John Easterling on Facebook.
His full announcement:
"Dame Olivia Newton-John (73) 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 is survived by her husband John Easterling; daughter Chloe Lattanzi; sister Sarah Newton-John; brother Toby Newton-John; nieces and nephews Tottie, Fiona and Brett Goldsmith; Emerson, Charlie, Zac, Jeremy, Randall, and Pierz Newton-John; Jude Newton-Stock, Layla Lee; Kira and Tasha Edelstein; and Brin and Valerie Hall.- via John Easterling, husband, Olivia Newton-John.
Olivia started her career in showbiz at 14. Years later, she became a smashing success around the world, including in the US. She won four Grammy Awards and went to No. 1 five times on the Billboard music chart.
Her No. 1 songs were "I Honestly Love You," "Have You Been Never Mellow," "You're The One That I Want," "Magic," and "Physical."
Other hit songs include "If Not For You," "Summer Nights," "Heart Attack," Landslide," "Xanadu," Deeper Than The Night," "Twist of Fate," "Livin' in Desperate Times," etc.
Fans also love her other "hugot" songs such as "Sam," "Hopelessly Devoted To You," "I Can't Help It," "Rest Your Love On Me," "Suddenly," and "Take A Chance."
In 1978, Olivia starred in the blockbuster musical film "Grease" opposite John Travolta. She also appeared in "Xanadu" and "The Very Excellent Mr. Dundee."
On March 31, 2012, Olivia staged a concert at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, Quezon City where she thrilled fans with her memorable songs.