Olivia Hussey, Star of "Romeo and Juliet," Passes Away at 73
Olivia Hussey, the actress famous for her role as Juliet in the 1968 film "Romeo and Juliet," has died at the age of 73, according to a statement released by her family on social media over the weekend.
Early Career and Rise to Fame
At the young age of 15, Olivia Hussey was discovered by director Franco Zeffirelli during her performance in "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie." This led to her iconic role as Juliet in the film adaptation of William Shakespeare's classic tragedy. The movie went on to win two Oscars, with Hussey herself earning a Golden Globe for best new actress for her portrayal of Juliet alongside Leonard Whiting.
Controversy Surrounding "Romeo and Juliet"
Years later, Hussey and Whiting found themselves embroiled in a legal battle with Paramount Pictures concerning alleged sexual abuse, harassment, and fraud related to nude scenes in the film. They claimed that they were misled about the filming conditions, leading to a lawsuit that was ultimately dismissed by a judge in 2023.
Tributes and Legacy
Following the news of Olivia Hussey's passing, Leonard Whiting paid tribute to his former co-star, expressing his love and admiration for her enduring beauty, both inside and out. Hussey's legacy extends beyond "Romeo and Juliet," with notable roles in projects like "Jesus of Nazareth" and "Death on the Nile."
Life and Family
Olivia Hussey was born on April 17, 1951, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, before relocating to London as a child. She honed her craft at the Italia Conti Academy drama school and went on to star in various productions, including horror films like "Black Christmas" and "Psycho IV: The Beginning." Survived by her husband, David Glen Eisley, three children, and a grandson, Olivia Hussey leaves behind a lasting impact on the world of cinema.
