John Travolta leads tributes to Olivia Newton-John as Grease star dies aged 73

Olivia Newton-John has passed away aged 73, after battling cancer on and off for 30 years.

The actress, who was best known for starring in hit 1978 film Grease as Sandy, passed away peacefully at her Southern California ranch in the early hours of Monday 8 Aug, her husband, John Easterling, announced via Olivia's official Facebook account.

Numerous celebrities flocked to pay tribute to Olivia, with her Grease co-star John Travolta, 68, taking to Instagram to share a heartfelt post about his close friend.

Posting a photo of Olivia when she was younger, the actor penned: "My dearest Olivia, you made all of our lives so much better. Your impact was incredible. I love you so much. We will see you down the road and we will all be together again. Yours from the moment I saw you and forever!

"Your Danny, your John!"

Other celebrities who took to social media to share tributes include Katherine Jenkins, who wrote: "A beautiful lady inside and out #RIP Olivia Newton John #Legend @markballas #olivianewtonjohn #grease #DWTS," alongside a photo of her standing next to Olivia.

Fellow actress Jane Seymour, 71, wrote a lengthy statement regarding the death of her "dear friend" and vowed to "never forget" Olivia.

"I’m devastated to hear that my dear friend Olivia has passed.⁣⁣⁣⁣ She was always a great friend and confidant to me. Olivia inspired everyone with her positive attitude to life and unfailing desire to help others.⁣⁣⁣⁣

"I had the privilege of meeting her whilst living with her sister Rona when I first moved to the US. We became fast and lifelong friends. She was not only a brilliant musician, actress, and singer but a wonderful mother, wife, and sister. ⁣⁣

"The world has lost one of its brightest lights.⁣⁣ I will never forget you Livvy.⁣⁣ Love always Jane," she wrote on Instagram alongside a snap of the pair smiling.

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"We have lost a great, iconic artist in Olivia Newton John, gone too soon from us at age 73," Star Trek actor George Takei wrote on Twitter.

He added: "I trust she is now in the great Xanadu beyond. Know that we are forever hopelessly devoted to you, Olivia. Rest in song and mirth."

RuPaul's Drag Race UK winner The Vivienne also paid tribute to the iconic star, writing: "What a sad day. Olivia Newton John may you rest well Angel x".

Olivia's husband released a statement announcing her death and asked fans to respect the family's privacy at such a difficult time.

He wrote: "Dame Olivia Newton-John 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 researchingplant 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)."

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