The tributes to late singer and actress, Olivia Newton-John, got a bit too much for This Morning presenter Josie Gibson who became emotional after talking to Grease star, Barry Pearl. The American actor was on the show on Tuesday, August 9, paying tribute to his beloved co-star from the 1978 smash-hit musical, in which she played Sandy Olssen and he played T-Bird Doody.
During the interview, Barry spoke about his close bond with Olivia, who died on Monday, August 8, aged 73 at her southern California ranch surrounded by friends and family. "We remained friends, the entire Grease family, we're all still in touch with each other. It's remained this family by [us] creating this piece of art, it's kept us together all these years. It's a major loss for us," he said.
The 72-year-old actor added: "She was a force and yet of a delicate nature, she just had this sweetness about her. It was just the person that she was, she was always looking to do good and she did. Her legend and memory will continue to do that. She has left an amazing legacy, which will continue to impact people in a positive way."
Read more: Grease's Pink Ladies and T-Birds pay tribute to Olivia Newton-John
As the interview came to a close and Josie sent love to the actor, Barry was overcome with emotion as he said: "Thank you for allowing me to come and speak to the collective Grease fans, because you folks are the ones who kept us relevant. And she was well aware of that. And she treated all of her fans with grace and dignity and love and light."
After saying goodbye to the actor, Josie said "Thank you", as her voice broke. The TV star was clearly moved by his words as she fanned her tears with her script. And co-host Craig Doyle praised the star for speaking so eloquently about Olivia Newton-John.
The British-born singer died “peacefully” at her ranch in Southern Californiaat the age of 73, with her husband confirming her death on social media. She was surrounded by family and friends, John Easterling said.
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