Olivia Hussey, the renowned actress who brought the character of Juliet to life in Franco Zeffirelli’s 1968 adaptation of Romeo and Juliet, has passed away at the age of 73. Her family confirmed her death on social media, stating that she died peacefully at home, surrounded by her loved ones, on Friday.
Hussey’s death follows a battle with cancer, according to her close friend Marc Huestis, who shared the news with CBS News. The beloved actress, who achieved international fame at just 15 years old for her portrayal of the tragic Shakespearean heroine, leaves behind a legacy as one of cinema’s most memorable and beautiful figures.
Born on April 17, 1951, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Hussey’s career began when she was spotted on stage in the play The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie. This performance caught the attention of director Franco Zeffirelli, who was searching for the perfect Juliet for his upcoming adaptation of Romeo and Juliet. She was soon cast in the role alongside 16-year-old Leonard Whiting as Romeo.
Zeffirelli’s Romeo and Juliet became a massive success, winning two Academy Awards, and Hussey’s portrayal of the young, doomed lover captivated audiences worldwide. Her heartfelt and pure portrayal of Juliet earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best New Actress, a significant recognition that propelled her into the international spotlight.
Although her breakthrough role brought immense fame, Hussey’s career was not without its complexities. Decades after the film’s release, Hussey and Whiting brought a lawsuit against Paramount Pictures, alleging that they were sexually exploited during the film’s controversial nude scenes. According to the two actors, they were told they would wear flesh-colored undergarments during the bedroom scene but were unexpectedly filmed nude instead, despite Zeffirelli’s assurances. Hussey and Whiting claimed that they had not consented to the nudity in the scene, which became a subject of public debate.
The case, which raised significant questions about exploitation in Hollywood, was dismissed by a Los Angeles County judge in 2023, who ruled that the portrayal could not be classified as child pornography. The case was dismissed because it was filed too late, but it shed light on the mistreatment of young actors in the film industry during the 1960s.
Despite the legal challenges, Hussey remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Her grace, charm, and talent were integral to her portrayal of one of literature’s most enduring characters, and she continued to be remembered for her work as Juliet.
Though Romeo and Juliet remain the pinnacle of her acting career, Hussey continued to impress audiences with her versatility in a variety of roles. She starred as Mary, the mother of Jesus, in the epic 1977 television miniseries Jesus of Nazareth, a role that brought her further acclaim. In addition to her television work, Hussey appeared in several notable films, including the 1978 adaptation of Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile and the classic horror film Black Christmas (1974), which has since become a cult favorite. She also reprised her role in horror with Psycho IV: The Beginning in 1990, cementing her status as a dynamic actor in various genres.
Despite her busy career, Hussey remained a private person who valued her family above all. She married musician David Glen Eisley, and together they raised three children. Hussey’s children and her grandson were by her side when she passed, and her surviving family members have expressed their deep grief over her death.
Her co-star Leonard Whiting, who shared a close bond with Hussey during the making of Romeo and Juliet, paid tribute to her after the news of her passing broke. On social media, he shared a heartfelt message, writing, “Rest now, my beautiful Juliet. No injustices can hurt you now. And the world will remember your beauty inside and out forever.” Whiting’s tribute reflected the deep connection the two shared while filming the legendary love story, and it serves as a poignant reminder of the timeless impact of their performances.
Throughout her life, Olivia Hussey became synonymous with the role of Juliet, but she was much more than just a screen icon. Her grace, resilience, and talent allowed her to move beyond her early fame, finding roles in a variety of genres and leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
Olivia Hussey’s contribution to cinema and television will never be forgotten. Her performance in Romeo and Juliet remains one of the most revered in cinematic history, and her ability to portray raw emotion and youthful innocence has captivated audiences for decades. Hussey’s legacy, both as an actress and as a woman who faced and overcame challenges, will continue to inspire future generations.
As her family and fans mourn her passing, Olivia Hussey will always be remembered as the eternal Juliet whose beauty, grace, and passion transcended both the screen and the stage.
Rest in peace, Olivia. Your legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were touched by your unforgettable portrayal of Juliet.
