Olivia Newton-John's friend Jane Seymour has opened up about the Grease star's final days before her tragic death.
The actress' husband John Easterling confirmed in a statement shared via Olivia's Facebook page yesterday that she had passed away at the age of 73. She tragically died at her ranch in Southern California on Monday August 8.
The star, who had been battling breast cancer for 30 years, was surrounded by her family and friends at the time of her death, with many friends and fans including John Travolta - who starred opposite her in Grease - paying tribute.
On breakfast TV today, Hollywood actress Jane Seymour was one of the stars who remembered her friend.
Asked if Olivia's death was a shock for those who knew her, Jane revealed to ITV's Good Morning Britain: "Actually, I thought she was going to pass many years ago. About three years ago, I remember being with her and I just thought this was the last time I was going to see her. She was skeletal and frail and in a lot of pain, and I just thought I'm going to get that call next week.
"But she just kept coming back. She just kept bouncing back. She loved life, she loved her husband, she loved her daughter."
She added: "She hung in there a really really long time. She was in so much pain and those of us who knew her at the end, we didn't want her to go, but it wasn't a life for her anymore."
Jane also detailed their last meeting, praising Olivia's zest for life even towards the end.
"The last time I sat there, she didn't know I was coming, she got the day wrong. She just kept saying looking at this hummingbird, look at the sky, look at nature. She just grabbed every single moment," she added.
"When she first had the back problem, who knew that was cancer in her spine, which is devastating? John has been incredible and always helped her through it. He is an expert in herbs and all kinds of alternative medicines as well."
Olivia's tragic death was confirmed in a statement by her husband.
"Dame Olivia Newton-John (73) 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," it read.
"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. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any donations be made in her memory to the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund (ONJFoundationFund.org)."
