Olivia Hussey, the acclaimed actress best known for her portrayal of Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli’s 1968 film Romeo and Juliet, passed away on Friday at the age of 73.
Her family confirmed the news through a statement shared on her Instagram account, remembering her as “a remarkable person whose warmth, wisdom, and pure kindness touched the lives of all who knew her.”
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Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Hussey was just 15 years old when she starred alongside Leonard Whiting in Zeffirelli’s Oscar-winning adaptation of Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy. Their performances earned them widespread recognition, with Hussey receiving a Golden Globe for her role as the iconic young lover.
In a tragic turn, the two actors filed a lawsuit in 2023 against the film’s studio, alleging child abuse related to a controversial nude scene in which they appeared as minors. The scene, which has long sparked debate, remains a dark chapter in the film’s legacy.
Hussey’s death marks the end of an era for a beloved actress who touched the hearts of millions with her portrayal of one of Shakespeare’s most memorable characters.
