A Life Beyond “Grease”
Olivia Newton-John was often described as “nice,” and that was true. But, as biographer Matthew Hild reveals in A Little More Love: The Life and Legacy of Olivia Newton-John (Bloomsbury Publishing), she was so much more than that. A singer, actress, philanthropist, environmentalist, gay rights activist, and animal lover, her life was a tapestry of achievements and passions.
Her rise to fame began with her iconic role as Sandy Olsson in the 1978 film Grease, a performance that became synonymous with her name. This breakthrough is thoroughly explored in Hild’s book, which delves into the many facets of Newton-John’s career that made her far more than just a “nice” performer.
From Pop-Country to Pop Babe
Newton-John’s music career took her from pop-country balladeer with songs like “Please Mr. Please” to a slightly risqué pop star with hits such as “Physical” and “Heart Attack.” Over the years, she released 70 singles, sold nearly 100 million albums worldwide, and earned four Grammy Awards. While her film career never reached the heights of Grease, she remained a beloved figure in entertainment through regular touring and her tireless advocacy for breast cancer research after being diagnosed in 1992.
She passed away at the age of 73 in 2022 due to cancer that had spread throughout her body.
The Starship and Other Highlights
One of the most fascinating aspects of Newton-John’s pre-film fame was her use of a private plane called the “Starship.” Commissioned for her 1976 U.S. tour, this Boeing 720 was dubbed the “Air Force One of Rock” and was the first of its kind. By the time Newton-John used it, the plane had been transformed into a luxurious tour bus with plush couches, a full-size shower, and well-stocked bars.
It had previously been used by rock legends like Led Zeppelin, Elton John, and Alice Cooper. Guitarists Skip Griparis and Rick Ruskin recall the experience fondly, describing the tour as both wild and fun, even if it wasn’t financially lucrative.
A Platonic Friendship with John Travolta
Despite their on-screen chemistry in Grease, Newton-John and John Travolta’s relationship was purely platonic. Neither of them was romantically involved with anyone during the filming, and they maintained a deep friendship. Newton-John once told a reporter, “I like him and we’re good friends, but that’s all.”
However, co-star Didi Conn, who played “Frenchy,” suggested in 2018 that the chemistry between Newton-John and Travolta might have been real. She mentioned an alternate ending to the film that included a “juicy” kiss, which she believed was not entirely acting.
Xanadu and the Golden Raspberry Awards
After Grease, Newton-John starred in the musical fantasy Xanadu, a film that was widely panned by critics. Despite its lackluster reception, the soundtrack was a success, featuring hits like “Magic” and the title track with ELO. The film also played a role in the creation of the Golden Raspberry Awards, an annual event that honors the worst movies of the year.
While Xanadu didn’t win the first Razzie, it did spark the tradition. The film’s soundtrack, however, remains a highlight of Newton-John’s career, showcasing her versatility and enduring appeal.
