Olivia Newton-John hits out at ‘silly’ critics who think Grease is ‘sexist’

Film has been reappraised in recent years

Olivia Newton-John has continued to hit out at those who criticise Grease as being “misogynistic”, “sexist” and lacking in diversity.

The 1978 musical, in which she stars opposite John Travolta, was broadcast on television over Christmas 2020, but prompted complaints from viewers who argued that the film should no longer be shown due to being outdated.

Newton-John, 72, has commented on the controversy during an appearance on a podcast titled A Life of Greatness.

“I think it’s kind of silly. I mean, this movie was made in the 1970s about the 1950s,” the actor and singer said.

“It was a stage play, it’s a musical, it’s fun. It’s a fun movie musical not to be taken so seriously,” she continued.

‘Grease’ has recently been accused of sexism (Rex Features)

Newton-John added that people “need to relax a little bit and just enjoy things for what they are”, stating: “I didn’t see it like that at all, I think it’s a fun movie that entertains people.”

Referencing the film’s ending, where her character Sandy transforms her image and becomes more appealing to Travolta’s Danny Zuko, Newton-John previously said: “Everyone forgets that, at the end, he changes for her, too.”

RELATED: Olivia Newton-John joins in heated Grease debate

Last week, the actor revealed that she currently had no plans to take the coronavirus vaccination in a bizarre interview with her daughter Chloe Lattazni, 35.

In the interview, Lattanzi – who co-runs a marijuana farm – went on to share anti-vaxxer sentiments despite having no scientific or medical qualifications.

In 2019, it was revealed that Newton-John was using marijuana for medicinal purposes having been diagnosed with breast cancer for a third time in 2017.

Doctors said that, while her condition is incurable, it can be managed through treatment.