Olivia Hussey, 'Romeo and Juliet' Star, Dies of Breast Cancer at 73

Dec 28, 2024, 11:47 AM

Olivia Hussey, the British-Argentine actress best known for her role as Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli's 1968 film adaptation of Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet,' died on Friday at the age of 73 after a battle with breast cancer. Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Hussey's performance as Juliet, which she portrayed at the age of 15, earned her a Golden Globe Award and brought her international acclaim. She also starred in the 1974 cult classic slasher film 'Black Christmas,' portrayed Mary in the 1977 television miniseries 'Jesus of Nazareth,' and appeared in 'Psycho IV' and the 1990 adaptation of Stephen King's 'It.' Hussey died surrounded by family members, according to statements posted on social media. Her 'Romeo and Juliet' co-star Leonard Whiting paid tribute, saying, 'The world will remember your beauty inside and out forever.'