Olivia Hussey, Beloved ‘Romeo and Juliet’ Star, Dies at 73

Olivia Hussey, the Argentine actress who captivated audiences as Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli’s iconic 1968 film adaptation of “Romeo and Juliet,” has passed away at the age of 73. Her death was announced on her official Instagram, sharing that she died peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones.

Hussey’s portrayal of Juliet alongside Leonard Whiting as Romeo earned her global acclaim and a Golden Globe for Best Promising Newcomer. The film itself was a critical and commercial success, nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards and garnering accolades for both director Franco Zeffirelli and its performances.

The statement on her Instagram read: “Olivia was a remarkable person whose warmth, wisdom, and pure kindness touched the lives of all who knew her.” It went on to celebrate Hussey’s life, “full of passion, love, and dedication to the arts, spirituality, and kindness towards animals”, acknowledging the immense loss while celebrating her “enduring impact on our lives and the industry.”

Co-star Leonard Whiting paid tribute to Hussey, writing on the Instagram post: “Olivia, we have shared so much since we were two sweet innocent children clinging on to each other for dear life, as every photo of us attests to. You have never been frightened of fighting to fix everything wrong in this world. Rest now my beautiful Juliet no injustices can hurt you now. And the world will remember your beauty inside and out forever. Leonard.”

A Career Marked by Iconic Roles

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1951, Hussey moved to London and trained at the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts. Her acting career blossomed with memorable roles in “Jesus of Nazareth” (1977), “Death on the Nile” (1978), and the horror films “Black Christmas” (1974), “Psycho IV: The Beginning” (1990), and “It” (1990). Her final role was in the telehealth company’s 2021 video “Let the Good Times Roll” – a video celebrating the spirit of community and connection during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.