Olivia Hussey, Iconic Juliet from 1968 Film, Passes Away at 73

Olivia Hussey, the famed actress known for her iconic role as Juliet in the 1968 film adaptation of Romeo and Juliet, has died at the age of 73.

Olivia Hussey, the celebrated actress whose portrayal of Juliet in the landmark 1968 film Romeo and Juliet captured hearts around the globe, has died at the age of 73. Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and raised in London, Hussey passed away surrounded by family on Friday, as confirmed by a statement on her Instagram account. Her powerful performance earned her a Golden Globe for Best New Actress, but the actress later made headlines when she and her co-star, Leonard Whiting, sued Paramount Pictures for alleged abuse stemming from a nude scene they filmed at just 15 years of age.

Hussey’s illustrious career also included her role as the Virgin Mary in the acclaimed 1977 miniseries Jesus of Nazareth, showcasing her versatile talent. The family statement remarked, "As we grieve this immense loss, we also celebrate Olivia's enduring impact on our lives and the industry." Discovered by director Franco Zeffirelli while starring in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, Hussey was cast alongside Whiting, despite the challenges the young actors faced.

While the 1968 film was nominated for multiple Oscars, Hussey missed an individual nomination despite her standout performance. Decades later, the pair’s lawsuit alleging they were misled about the nude scene was dismissed by a judge on the grounds that the scene was not deemed "sufficiently sexually suggestive."

Hussey's career extended beyond iconic roles into various genres, including slasher films, where she garnered recognition as a 'scream queen.' She lent her voice to video games and reunited with Whiting in the contemporary film Social Suicide in 2015. Hussey leaves behind a legacy defined by powerful performances and notable impacts within the entertainment industry.