Hollywood is mourning the loss of actress Olivia Hussey Eisley, best known for her portrayal of Juliet Capulet in Franco Zeffirelli's iconic 1968 adaptation of Romeo and Juliet. The actress passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loved ones on December 27, 2023, at the age of 73.
The news of her death was shared via her family’s Instagram account, where they expressed their deep sorrow and described Hussey as "a remarkable person whose warmth, wisdom, and pure kindness touched the lives of all who knew her." Born on April 17, 1951, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Hussey led a life filled with passion for the arts, spirituality, and kindness toward animals.
Hussey's breakout role as the star-crossed lover captivated audiences and earned her the Golden Globe for New Star of the Year, making her one of the most recognizable faces of her generation.
At just 15 years old, Hussey took on the role of Juliet opposite actor Leonard Whiting, who played Romeo. The film was celebrated for its youthful cast and was nominated for four Academy Awards, winning two, cementing its place as a classic.
Despite the beauty of the film, its production was not without controversy. Hussey and Whiting, both minors at the time, found themselves embroiled in legal battles years later due to the filming of nude scenes. The two actors filed lawsuits against Paramount Pictures, claiming they were misled by Zeffirelli and alleging sexual exploitation. The first lawsuit, filed in December 2022, was dismissed; the subsequent case was also rejected by the judge, who ruled they had consented to the scene.
Reflecting on the filming process, Hussey had previously stated, "We shot it at the end of the film. So by then… we've become one big family. It wasn't then too big of a deal." Whiting corroborated her sentiment, emphasizing their bond during the challenging experience.
Outside of Romeo and Juliet, Hussey became a beloved figure in the horror genre, starring in Black Christmas, one of the earliest slasher films, which has since attained cult status. She also appeared in Death on the Nile and in adaptations of Stephen King’s It, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Her work extended to voice acting, where she lent her voice to characters in various animated series, including Superman: The Animated Series.
Hussey's friend, Marc Huestis, expressed his admiration, stating, "I adored her. She had so much love and was the most beautiful Juliet ever. On-screen and in real life, she exuded love and life." Her warmth and talent left indelible marks on everyone around her.
Throughout her career, Hussey remained dedicated to her craft and to philanthropy. She often advocated for animal rights, embodying the kindness her family described at her passing.
Hussey is survived by her husband, musician David Glen Eisley, and their three children, Alex, Max, and India. She also leaves behind her grandson, Greyson. Her family’s statement concluded with heartfelt gratitude for the support they have received, asking for privacy as they navigate the immense loss.
Reflecting on Olivia Hussey's life reveals not only her extensive contributions to cinema but also the light she brought to those who knew her. A true talent whose legacy will certainly be cherished, Hussey’s role as Juliet will remain timeless, echoing through generations long after her departure.
