Tributes as Romeo and Juliet star Olivia Hussey dies aged 73

The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Olivia Hussey Eisley, best known for her iconic portrayal of Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli's 1968 film adaptation of Romeo and Juliet. The British-Argentine actress passed away at the age of 73.

A touching tribute on her Instagram page announced: "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 27.

"Olivia was a remarkable person whose warmth, wisdom, and pure kindness touched the lives of all who knew her. Born on April 17th, 1951 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Olivia lived a life full of passion, love, and dedication to the arts, spirituality, and kindness towards animals.

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"Olivia leaves behind a loving family- her children, Alex, Max, and India, her husband of 35 years David Glen Eisley, and grandson, Greyson, and a legacy of love that will forever be cherished in our hearts. As we grieve this immense loss, we also celebrate Olivia's enduring impact on our lives and the industry. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time and ask for privacy as we mourn the loss of a truly special soul."

Hussey, who captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with her role as Juliet when she was just 15, trained at the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts in London. She seamlessly transitioned from stage to screen, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of entertainment, according to Mirror US, reports the Mirror.

The age of the actress during the filming of Romeo and Juliet sparked a controversy due to the explicit scenes. In her 2018 memoir, she reflected on how the studio handled the scene "tastefully," stating: "We shot it at the end of the film. So by that time ... we've become one big family. It wasn't that big of a deal. And Leonard wasn't shy at all! In the middle of shooting I just completely forgot I didn't have clothes on."

However, by 2022, her perspective had changed dramatically. She and co-star Leonard Whiting filed a staggering $500 million lawsuit against Paramount Pictures, alleging sexual exploitation, sexual harassment, and fraud, claiming they had suffered emotional trauma and mental distress. Due in part to the statute of limitations, the lawsuit was dismissed.

They sued again earlier in 2024 but this too was dismissed in October as a judge ruled they had consented to the scenes. Olivia went on to star in the slasher classic Black Christmas and the 1978 film Death on the Nile..