Former EastEnders star Samantha Womack has told fans she is fighting cancer following the tragic death of Olivia Newton-John. The actress, who was much loved by fans for playing Ronnie Mitchell in the BBC One soap, shared a picture alongside Olivia, whose passing was announced on Monday night (August 8).
The British-born singer and actress' husband confirmed Dame Olivia had died "peacefully" on Monday morning. John Easterling said the Grease icon, famed for playing Sandy in the hit film opposite John Travolta as Danny, was surrounded by family and friends as she passed at the age of 73 after battling breast cancer for 30 years.
Sharing her own message on Twitter alongside a picture of the late star, Samantha penned: "This was the most magical of evenings. Olivia and Chloe had come to see Grease in London and we had dinner together afterwards. I was so excited and in awe, she was my childhood."
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She then added: "I now start my own battle with this disease and am left feeling deeply moved." Samantha's post was soon flooded with support and well-wishes.
This Morning’s soap expert Sharon Marshall wrote: "Wishing you love and strength." @anistonenders replied: "Sending you all the love in the world." @HoodChristyJade commented: "Wishing you all the best Sam. Sending you lots of love and hugs." @Tabracadabra said: "So gutted to hear this Sam. I went through it in 2020 when I was 33. Its so hard but you will cope."
@faz42 shared: "You've got this! Chin up, each day at a time and you will smash it. Then we can speak about doing a game on special bringing you all back and introducing your kids to continue it on." @MattGraves13 added: "So sorry for you both for the loss of Olivia but your battle with this vile illness. All the best to you and your family! Take care!"
Dame Olivia’s husband, John confirmed the news of his partner’s passing in a statement yesterday. "Dame Olivia Newton-John passed away peacefully at her Ranch in Southern California this morning, surrounded by family and friends," he said. 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."
Dame Olivia’s daughter Chloe Lattanzi paid tribute to her mother with a selection of images on Instagram. The post included pictures of Ms Lattanzi as a baby as well as more showing the pair appearing to give interviews together. Meanwhile, writing on Instagram, Travolta said that her “impact was incredible” and signed off his tribute to the actress as "your Danny".
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