Hollywood lost a legend.
Olivia Hussey, best known for her role as Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli’s 1968 adaptation Romeo and Julietdied at the age of 73.
The news was confirmed in a heartwarming statement shared on his official Instagram account.
Hussey passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, December 27, surrounded by her loved ones.
“Olivia was a remarkable person whose warmth, wisdom and pure kindness touched the lives of all who knew her,” her family wrote in the statement, describing her life as “passion, love, and art, Celebrated as “devoted to spirituality”. And be kind to animals.”
She is survived by her children, Alex, Max and India; her husband, musician David Glen Easley; and her grandson, Grayson.
The family expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support during this time, adding, “While we are saddened by this tremendous loss, we also celebrate Olivia’s lasting impact on our lives and industry. We are with you during this difficult time. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask for privacy as we mourn the loss of a truly special soul.
Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina on April 17, 1951, Hussey moved to London as a child.
He began acting at the age of 13, playing minor roles before his breakthrough in The Zephyrellis. Romeo and Juliet.
Released in 1968, the film was a box office success and became notable for actors around the age of Shakespeare’s famous lover. Hussey was 16 at the time, while her co-star Leonard Whiting was 17.