Olivia Hussey, the iconic actress who brought Juliet to life in the acclaimed 1968 film Romeo and Juliet, has passed away at the age of 73. The Argentine-born actress, who was raised in London, passed away on Friday surrounded by her loved ones, according to a heartfelt statement shared on her Instagram account.
Rising Stardom with Romeo and Juliet
Hussey was just 15 years old when legendary director Franco Zeffirelli discovered her on stage in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie. Her captivating presence earned her the role of Juliet in what became the definitive cinematic adaptation of Shakespeare’s tragic love story. Starring alongside British actor Leonard Whiting, who was 16 at the time, the film received critical acclaim, including Oscar nominations for Best Picture and Best Director.
While Hussey didn’t receive an Oscar nomination, she won the Golden Globe for Best New Star, cementing her place in Hollywood’s spotlight.
Controversy and Legal Battles
Years after the film’s release, Hussey and her co-star Leonard Whiting sued Paramount Pictures, alleging that Zeffirelli coerced them into filming nude scenes despite prior assurances to the contrary. The pair sought over $500 million in damages, citing emotional distress and exploitation.However, in 2022, a judge threw out the case, deciding that the scenes were not, “sufficiently sexually suggestive.”
Career Highlights
Hussey’s career extended far beyond Romeo and Juliet. In 1977, she reunited with Zeffirelli to portray Mary, the mother of Jesus, in the critically acclaimed TV miniseries Jesus of Nazareth.She was also featured in the 1978 film modification of Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile.
Her roles in early horror classics like Black Christmas (1974) and Psycho IV: The Beginning earned her the title of “scream queen.” In the latter, she portrayed Norman Bates’s mother in a prologue storyline, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Later in her career, Hussey lent her voice to video games and reunited with Whiting in the 2015 British film Social Suicide, a modern take on Romeo and Juliet set in the social media era.
A Legacy Remembered
Hussey, born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1951, relocated to London at seven and honed her acting skills at the Italia Conti Academy. Her groundbreaking performance in Romeo and Juliet left an indelible mark on the film industry, inspiring generations of actors and audiences alike.
“As we grieve this immense loss, we also celebrate Olivia’s enduring impact on our lives and the industry,” Her family expressed their sentiments in a heartfelt statement.
A Life of Courage and Resilience
Despite facing challenges and controversies, Olivia Hussey’s contributions to cinema remain timeless. Her portrayal of Juliet continues to resonate as one of the most memorable performances in cinematic history.
Her life was a testament to her talent, resilience, and passion for her craft. Olivia Hussey will forever be remembered as a trailblazer and an icon in the world of film.
