Olivia Hussey, Celebrated 'Romeo and Juliet' Actress, Passes Away at 73

Olivia Hussey, the actress famed for her portrayal of Juliet in the renowned 1968 film "Romeo and Juliet," has passed away at the age of 73. The news, confirmed via a statement on her Instagram, mentioned that Hussey died surrounded by family and friends. Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1951, she moved to London at a young age and gained global attention for her role in Franco Zeffirelli's celebrated adaptation of Shakespeare's play. At just 15 years old, she received the Golden Globe for Best New Star for her performance.

One aspect of Hussey’s legacy is her lawsuit against Paramount Pictures, filed decades after the film's release, alleging that she and her co-star Leonard Whiting were encouraged by Zeffirelli to perform in nude scenes against previous assurances. Despite their efforts to obtain over $500 million in damages, a judge ultimately dismissed the case, ruling the scene was not sufficiently sexually suggestive.

In addition to her landmark role in "Romeo and Juliet," Hussey portrayed Mary in the 1977 miniseries "Jesus of Nazareth," and starred in various films throughout her career, including "Death on the Nile" and the slasher hit "Black Christmas." Her contributions to the entertainment industry were recognized and celebrated, with the recent statement emphasizing not only the sorrow of her passing but also the lasting impact she made both on audiences and the film industry. Hussey also made a notable comeback in 2015, reuniting with Whiting in the British film "Social Suicide," which presented a modern take on the classic love story.

Hussey's death marks the end of an era for many fans who cherished her iconic performances and the controversies that shaped her remarkable career.