Olivia Hussey, the acclaimed actor known for her iconic role as Juliet in the 1968 film 'Romeo and Juliet,' has sadly passed away at the age of 73. Her family announced the news on social media, revealing that she died peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones.
At just 15 years old, Hussey was discovered by director Franco Zeffirelli while performing in the play 'The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie.' This led to her casting as Juliet in the film adaptation of William Shakespeare's tragic love story. Her performance in 'Romeo and Juliet' earned her a Golden Globe for best new actress, alongside co-star Leonard Whiting.
Despite the success of the film, Hussey and Whiting later faced legal challenges related to alleged sexual abuse, harassment, and fraud during the filming of nude scenes. The lawsuit against Paramount Pictures was ultimately dismissed by a judge in 2023.
Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on April 17, 1951, Hussey later moved to London as a child. In addition to her role in 'Romeo and Juliet,' she also portrayed Mary, the mother of Jesus, in the 1977 television series 'Jesus of Nazareth,' and appeared in the 1978 adaptation of Agatha Christie's 'Death on the Nile.'
Olivia Hussey is survived by her husband, David Glen Eisley, three children, and a grandson. Her legacy as a talented and versatile actor will continue to be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.