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The ever-iconic Olivia Hussey Eisley, who captivated audiences as Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli’s 1968 classic Romeo and Juliet, died on Friday at the age of 73.
Olivia Hussey and Leonard Whiting in Romeo & Juliet (1968) Credits: BHE FilmsHussey’s breakout role as Juliet earned her international acclaim, showcasing her remarkable talent and timeless beauty. However, despite her success, she later revealed some career regrets, reflecting on missed opportunities and choices she wished she had made differently.
Legendary actress Olivia Hussey dies at 73, leaving one regret behind
Born in Argentina and raised in London, Olivia Hussey‘s passing was announced through a heartfelt statement shared on her official Instagram account.
Hussey passed away from cancer on Friday, surrounded by her loved ones. The social media post stated,
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Olivia Hussey Eisley, who went peacefully at home surrounded by her loved ones on December 27th. Olivia was a remarkable person whose warmth, wisdom, and pure kindness touched the lives of all who knew her. … Olivia lived a life full of passion, love, and dedication to the arts, spirituality and kindness towards animals
Hussey was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008, and though she overcame it at the time, the illness returned in 2018. Despite her health battles, she remained an enduring figure in cinema, cherished for her timeless performances and her unforgettable mark on cinema.
Olivia Hussey in Zeffirelli’s Romeo and Juliet (1968) Credits: BHE FilmsWhile speaking with Express in 2018 about her health and career, she stated,
I regret that I didn’t stretch myself more as an actress, take on meatier roles But I took time off to live my life and raise three children. At the time that was more important than working on my career. Overall I’ve done a couple of roles I’m proud of and I’m very happy in my life.
She regretted not taking on more challenging roles throughout her career, despite being a celebrated actor. However, she ultimately found peace and happiness with the choices she made, as they allowed her to live a full and fortunate life.
A look back at Olivia Hussey’s spectacular career
Olivia Hussey’s journey began on a London stage, where she made her debut in the West End production of The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, acting alongside Vanessa Redgrave.
It was there that she caught the attention of renowned Italian filmmaker Franco Zeffirelli, who cast her as Juliet in his groundbreaking adaptation of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and changed her forever. Hussey was just 15 when she earned the role, filming the movie at 16 alongside Leonard Whiting, who played Romeo.
The 1968 film then became an instant classic, both Hussey and Whiting received nominations at the 1969 Golden Globe Awards for Most Promising Newcomer, and Zeffirelli’s film garnered four Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director. Thus one can say this role cemented Hussey as a household name and launched a career that would span decades.
Olivia Hussey in Psycho IV: The Beginning Credits: Universal TelevisionBeyond Juliet, Hussey ventured into many roles across stage, screen, and even video games. As she lent her voice to the Star Wars universe, appearing in video games like Rogue Squadron, Force Commander, and The Old Republic.
She became a cult favorite in early slasher cinema with her performance in Black Christmas, a role that made her the ultimate scream queen. Later, she took on the chilling role of Norman Bates’ mother in Psycho IV: The Beginning, a prequel to the legendary Hitchcock classic.
Hussey also starred as Rebecca in Ivanhoe and played the global icon in Mother Teresa of Calcutta. Other than that she had many many many more credits under her belt. Thus, from the Shakespearean drama to horror classics, and everything else, Olivia Hussey’s career was as extraordinary as the woman herself.
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