Olivia Hussey Eisley, the Argentine-born actress famous for portraying Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli’s 1968 film Romeo and Juliet, has passed away at the age of 73. The news was shared via her official Instagram account on December 27, 2024.
The announcement conveyed deep sadness, stating that Hussey Eisley died peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones. The tribute described her as a “remarkable person” whose warmth, wisdom, and pure kindness left a lasting impact on everyone she encountered. Her legacy, the post emphasized, was built on love, passion, and dedication to the arts, spirituality, and compassion for animals.
The message continued by honoring her family: her children, Alex, Max, and India, her husband of 35 years, David Glen Eisley, and her grandson, Greyson. The post concluded by recognizing the profound influence Hussey Eisley had on both her family and the industry, asking for privacy during this difficult time, and thanking everyone for their support.
Born in Argentina, Olivia Hussey was just 15 years old when she starred as Juliet in Romeo and Juliet, alongside Leonard Whiting as Romeo. The film, released in 1968, was a huge success both commercially and critically. It garnered four Oscar nominations, winning two awards for Best Costume and Best Cinematography in 1969.
In an interview with The Guardian in August 2018, Hussey Eisley reflected on her role in the iconic film, which celebrated its 50th anniversary that year. She expressed her love for playing Juliet but mentioned the challenges she faced with the press, recalling herself as “this wild little thing” at the time.
While the film’s success was undeniable, it was also surrounded by controversy. Hussey Eisley and Whiting were involved in a legal battle with Paramount Pictures regarding a nude scene in the movie. Initially, the director, Franco Zeffirelli, had assured them that there would be no nudity, and they would wear flesh-colored undergarments for a bedroom scene. However, the actors later filed a lawsuit claiming that the scene was not as agreed.
In December 2022, they filed a legal complaint, but it was dismissed by a judge in May 2023. Hussey Eisley and Whiting didn’t give up and pursued a second lawsuit against Paramount in February 2024. This time, they alleged that the studio had digitally redistributed the film without their consent.
Beyond Romeo and Juliet, Olivia Hussey had a diverse career, including notable roles such as playing Mary in the 1977 miniseries Jesus of Nazareth. She also portrayed Rosalie Otterbourne in the 1978 film adaptation of Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile, directed by John Guillermin.
Olivia Hussey Eisley’s death marks the end of an era for fans of the timeless Romeo and Juliet adaptation, but her contributions to the arts and her kindness will continue to be cherished by all who knew her.
