Olivia Hussey, star of *Romeo & Juliet*, has died at 73

Olivia Hussey, star of *Romeo & Juliet*, has died at 73

Olivia Hussey, best known for her role as Juliet in the 1968 adaptation of *Romeo & Juliet*, has died at 73

According to a statement on her Instagram, she passed away peacefully at her home on December 27, surrounded by loved ones.

Hussey’s family described her as a remarkable person whose warmth, wisdom, and kindness touched everyone she met. Her life was marked by her passion for the arts, spirituality, and love for animals.

She is survived by her children, Alex, Max, and India; her husband, musician David Glen Eisley; and her grandson, Greyson.

Born in Buenos Aires on April 17, 1951, Hussey moved to London as a child.

She began acting at 13, but it was her portrayal of Juliet, alongside Leonard Whiting, in Franco Zeffirelli’s *Romeo & Juliet* that made her an international star at just 16.

The film, released in 1968, became a box office hit and was praised for featuring actors close in age to Shakespeare’s characters.

Hussey continued her acting career with notable roles, including as Mary, mother of Jesus, in *Jesus of Nazareth* (1977), and starring in the iconic horror film *Black Christmas* (1974).

She also appeared in *It* (1990) and played Norman Bates’ mother in *Psycho IV: The Beginning*. After stepping back from acting in 2016, her final film appearance was in 2015’s *Social Suicide*.

In 2008, Hussey was diagnosed with breast cancer, which went into remission after surgery. Despite health setbacks, she remained positive, focusing on her family and the roles she was most proud of.

Her daughter, India Eisley, called her mother «resilient» and praised her for teaching her children the importance of having a strong sense of self.

Her family asked for privacy during this difficult time, expressing gratitude for the support and prayers.