Jaws Stars: Where Are They Now After 51 Years?

Fifty-one years after the iconic film Jaws first terrified audiences, many of its cast members have pursued diverse and notable careers. Roy Scheider, who portrayed Police Chief Martin Brody, went on to earn a second Academy Award nomination for his performance in Bob Fosse's All That Jazz (1979), while also appearing in films by acclaimed directors and television series.

Richard Dreyfuss, who played marine biologist Matt Hooper, achieved significant success, earning an Oscar for The Goodbye Girl in 1977 and later receiving another Academy Award nomination for Mr. Holland's Opus. Dreyfuss has navigated a career spanning drama, comedy, and family films.

Robert Shaw, the actor behind the unforgettable Quint, had a distinguished career prior to Jaws, including an Academy Award nomination for A Man for All Seasons. Shaw was also a celebrated writer. Tragically, he passed away from a heart attack at the age of 51 in 1978.

Lorraine Gary, who played Ellen Brody, largely retired from acting after 1941 (1979), having appeared in numerous television series before Jaws. Murray Hamilton, who memorably portrayed Mayor Larry Vaughn, had a prolific career that included roles in The Graduate and sequels to Jaws, but died before he could reprise his role in Jaws: The Revenge.

Other cast members like Lee Fierro, who played Mrs. Kintner, were local residents who brought authenticity to their roles. Carl Gottlieb contributed to the Jaws script and appeared in the film, while actress-stuntwoman Susan Backlinie played the shark's first victim. Jeffrey Kramer, as Deputy Hendricks, has since found success as an Emmy-winning producer.