Olivia Hussey, the renowned actress best known for her role as Juliet in the 1968 film adaptation of Romeo and Juliet, has passed away at the age of 73. The actress, originally from Argentina but raised in London, died on Friday, surrounded by her loved ones, according to a statement shared on her Instagram account. Hussey's portrayal of Juliet earned her international recognition, and she won a Golden Globe Award for Best New Actress for the role. However, later in life, she became known for suing Paramount Pictures over the film's controversial nude scene, claiming she was only 15 when it was filmed and was subjected to sexual abuse. Despite this difficult chapter, Hussey's career continued to thrive, with one of her most notable roles being that of the Virgin Mary in the 1977 TV miniseries Jesus of Nazareth.
Hussey’s career took off after she was discovered by director Franco Zeffirelli while performing in the play The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie. At the time, she was just 15 years old, and Zeffirelli chose her to play Juliet in his film adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic. Her performance alongside Leonard Whiting, who played Romeo, received critical acclaim, and the film went on to be nominated for several Oscars. Although Hussey did not receive an Academy Award nomination, she won the Golden Globe for Best New Star. Following her breakthrough in Romeo and Juliet, Hussey’s career expanded into a variety of roles, including her portrayal of Mary in Jesus of Nazareth and her performances in classic horror films such as Black Christmas (1974) and Psycho IV: The Beginning (1990). Her work in these films earned her the title of "scream queen," showcasing her versatility and range as an actress.
In her later years, Hussey continued to work in the entertainment industry, including taking on voice acting roles for video games. One of her final projects was a reunion with Leonard Whiting in the 2015 British film Social Suicide, a modernized retelling of Romeo and Juliet set in the age of social media. As news of her passing spreads, Hussey’s family and fans remember her not only for her unforgettable roles but also for the lasting impact she made on both the film industry and popular culture. The statement shared by her family celebrates her enduring legacy, acknowledging that her influence will continue to resonate with audiences and the entertainment world for years to come.
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