Remembering Olivia Hussey: Iconic 'Romeo and Juliet' Star Passes at 73

Olivia Hussey, celebrated for her portrayal of Juliet in the 1968 film, has died at the age of 73. Born in Argentina and raised in London, she became an iconic figure in cinema with a tumultuous history related to her early career, including a lawsuit against Paramount Pictures.

Olivia Hussey, the beloved actress famed for her role as Juliet in the 1968 film "Romeo and Juliet," has passed away at the age of 73. According to a statement shared on her Instagram account, the Argentine-born actress died on Friday, surrounded by her family. Hussey shot to fame as a teenager, earning a Golden Globe award for Best New Star for her unforgettable performance in the classic adaptation of Shakespeare's work.

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1951, Hussey moved to London at the age of seven to pursue her passion for acting, studying at the Italia Conti Academy. She was discovered by Franco Zeffirelli while performing in the play "The Prime of Miss Joan Brodie." Zeffirelli was searching for a convincing Juliet for what would become a landmark film in cinematic history, ultimately casting the then-15-year-old Hussey alongside 16-year-old Leonard Whiting as Romeo.

The 1968 "Romeo and Juliet" received multiple Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director, although Hussey did not secure an Oscar nod despite her standout role. However, the film's success led to decades of recognition and accolades.

Despite her early acclaim, Hussey's career was marred by a contentious history with Paramount Pictures. Years later, she and Whiting filed a lawsuit claiming that they were coerced by Zeffirelli into shooting nude scenes, despite assurances that they would not be required to do so. The pair sought over $500 million in damages for the alleged suffering and the film's financial gains. However, a judge dismissed the case, ruling that the scene was not "sufficiently sexually suggestive."

In addition to her memorable role in "Romeo and Juliet," Hussey portrayed the Virgin Mary in the 1977 miniseries "Jesus of Nazareth," and starred in several prominent films, including the 1974 horror classic "Black Christmas" and the adaptation of Agatha Christie's "Death on the Nile." Her later work included voice acting roles in video games, and she had a final reunion with Whiting in the 2015 film "Social Suicide," a modern take on the Romeo and Juliet tale.

As we remember Olivia Hussey, her remarkable talent and impactful contributions to the film industry continue to resonate. The legacy of her artistry endures even as we mourn an immense loss.