Olivia Hussey, star of 1968 Romeo and Juliet film, dies aged 73

Olivia Hussey, recognized for her role as young Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli's 1968 movie Romeo and Juliet—an performance that earned her a Golden Globe—passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, as stated by her family. She was 73 years old.

“Olivia was an extraordinary individual whose compassion, insight, and genuine kindness impacted everyone around her,” her family shared in a message on her Instagram. “She led a life brimming with passion, love, and a deep commitment to the arts, spirituality, and caring for animals.”

"While we mourn this profound loss, we also honor the lasting influence Olivia has had on our lives and within the industry."

Born in Buenos Aires, Hussey was just 15 years old when she and her co-star Leonard Whiting appeared in the Oscar-winning film version of William Shakespeare's tragic play.

In 2023, the two actors took legal action against the studio, claiming they were subjected to child abuse during a contentious nude scene that included Hussey and Whiting, who were just 15 and 16 years old at that time.

Later that year, a judge threw out the lawsuit, stating that there was not a convincing case that the film was "legally considered sufficiently sexually suggestive to be deemed illegal."

"Romeo and Juliet" was a major success at the box office when it was released, garnering four Academy Award nominations and winning two in the categories of best cinematography and best costume design.

Hussey, honored with a “new star of the year” Golden Globe for her role, went on to appear in the 1974 horror movie Black Christmas and the 1978 version of Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile, along with several other projects.

She is mourned by her husband, David Eisley, along with their three kids and a grandchild.