With Love From Livvy and Chloe

By Michael Sheather

If smiles are anything to go by, the golden girl from Down Under, Olivia Newton-John, and her daughter Chloe, 2 1/2, are on top of the world. Not only are they obviously enjoying life, but young Chloe is just as obviously endowed with a smile that’s as infectious and enchanting as her famous mother’s.

And there’s no reason in the world why this pair shouldn’t be happy. Olivia is riding high on the crest of a wave with the release of her new album, The Rumour, and a new television special, Olivia Newton-John in Australia. The special, which will be screened nationally by the Seven Network on September 4, is Livvy’s heartfelt tribute to the country where she grew up herself, and which she hopes will play an important role in Chloe’s upbringing.

A giggling Chloe even makes a special appearance, playing like generations of dinky-di Aussie children in the surf and sand. The special, which showcases Olivia at some of Australia’s best-known landmarks such as Ayers Rock, Manly Beach and the Barossa Valley will include scenes shot in almost every part of this vast, beautiful country. Olivia delights in taking a look at some distinctly Australian lifestyles, hamming it up on a beach with a group of lifesavers, singing with shearers on an Outback property and even taking to the saddle as a jillaroo.

Including her daughter in her latest special is an indication that Olivia has changed her attitude about keeping her family away from the glare of the public spotlight. Although still a protective mother, she and husband Matt Lattanzi are beginning to relax the guards that shielded blonde Chloe from the world for two years after she was born. Certainly, Australians will see Olivia and little Chloe as they have never seen them before.