Olivia Hussey Eisley, Star of ‘Romeo and Juliet,’ Passes Away at 73

Olivia Hussey Eisley, renowned for her iconic role as Juliet in the 1968 adaptation of “Romeo and Juliet,” has passed away at the age of 73. The news was shared on her official Instagram page, where her family expressed their profound sadness over her departure.

“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 27th,” the heartfelt statement read. “Olivia was a remarkable person whose warmth, wisdom, and pure kindness touched the lives of all who knew her.”

Hussey Eisley’s breakout performance in “Romeo and Juliet” brought her critical acclaim, earning her a Golden Globe Award. Directed by Franco Zeffirelli, this adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic was not without its controversies. In late 2022, Hussey Eisley and co-star Leonard Whiting filed a lawsuit against Paramount Studios, claiming the film was released with nude scenes when they were minors. The suit, which charged that Zeffirelli insisted on filming these scenes for the film’s success, was ultimately dismissed in May 2023.

Picking up a strong following from her early career, Hussey Eisley later starred in the influential 1974 horror classic “Black Christmas” and appeared in the 1978 adaptation of Agatha Christie’s “Death on the Nile.” She reunited with Zeffirelli in 1977 for the TV miniseries “Jesus of Nazareth.”

In the 1990s, Hussey Eisley continued to work in the horror genre with notable roles in “Psycho IV: The Beginning” and “It,” a miniseries based on Stephen King’s horror novel. Her diverse filmography expanded into the early 2000s with roles in the biographical film “Mother Teresa,” the thriller “El Grito,” and the comedy “Tortilla Heaven.”

Born on April 17, 1951, in Buenos Aires, Hussey Eisley led a life rich in passion for the arts and kindness towards animals. Her family’s statement emphasized her deep commitment to spirituality and love.

“Olivia leaves behind a loving family— her children Alex, Max, and India, her husband of 35 years, David Glen Eisley, and her grandson Greyson. Her legacy of love will forever be cherished in our hearts,” the statement noted.

As family and fans mourn her death, they also celebrate Hussey Eisley’s lasting impact on the industry and the lives she touched. “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.”