Susan Kendall Newman Passes Away at 72

Actress Susan Kendall Newman, the daughter of Paul Newman, passed away on August 2 at the age of 72. Her family noted that she succumbed to complications from a long-standing health issue.

Describing her, her obituary highlighted her sharp humor, generosity, and unwavering love for family and friends. “She will be sorely missed,” it stated.

Susan was part of the 1978 film “I Wanna Hold Your Hand,” which focused on a group of teenagers trying to sneak into The Ed Sullivan Show during the Beatles’ iconic debut in 1964. She also featured in the sports comedy “Slap Shot” from 1977, where her father portrayed a minor league ice hockey coach, and she played a pharmacist. Additionally, she appeared in Robert Altman’s “The Wedding” in 1978, which also starred Desi Arnaz Jr. and Carol Burnett.

Newman produced the ABC Theater’s rendition of “Shadow Box,” directed by her father, with her stepmother, Joanne Woodward, in a leading role. This venture garnered her an Emmy Award nomination for the television version of the play. Newman also earned a Grammy nomination for Best Children’s Spoken Word Album for a series of audiobooks she worked on.

Her obituary also noted her deep commitment to social causes, particularly through her involvement with the Scott Newman Foundation, which aims to combat drug abuse. This foundation was created in honor of her late son, who tragically passed away due to a drug overdose in 1978. Newman collaborated with the California Department of Education to help produce the video “Drug-Free Kids: A Parent’s Guide.”

The impact Susan had on those around her is undeniable, and tributes have started pouring in on social media, with friends, fans, and loved ones sharing their heartfelt memories and farewells.