Grease star Susan Buckner dies aged 72

The American actress was best known for playing the role of Patty Simcox in 'Grease'.

Buckner was best known for playing the cheerleader Patty Simcox in the 1978 blockbuster Grease, alongside Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta.

She also appeared as one of The Krofftettes who performed synchronised swimming routines on The Brady Bunch Variety Hour.

In a statement issued by her publicist Melissa Berthier, her family revealed that the actress “died peacefully on May 2 surrounded by loved ones” at her home in Miami, Florida.

Buckner was born in Seattle, Washington on 28th January 1952.

Prior to becoming an actress, she made her name on the pageant circuit, being crowned Miss Washington in 1971 before representing the state at the Miss America competition the following year.

Bruckner also went on to become a member of the singing and dancing group The Golddiggers, which featured on The Dean Martin Show, and made appearances on The Mac Davis Show, Sonny And Cher.

Fans of Grease have been paying their respects to the star on social media.

One Twitter user wrote: "So sad. Susan Buckner has died. She was wonderful as Patti Simcox. My brothers Grease crush. Also good in Deadly Blessing. RIP Susan."