She appeared in many films, including: ‘Jesus of Nazareth’ in 1977 where she played Mary and the 1990 movie adaptation of Stephen King’s “It,” and “Romeo and Juliet”
SAN FRANCISCO — Olivia Hussey, the actress who starred as Juliet in the controversial 1968 version of “Romeo and Juliet,” died Friday. She was 73.
Her family posted to her Instagram account to announce her death. They say she died peacefully, surrounded by family.
“Olivia was a remarkable person whose warmth, wisdom, and pure kindness touched the lives of all who knew her,” the post said. “Olivia lived a life full of passion, love, and dedication to the arts, spirituality, and kindness towards animals.”
Hussey appeared in dozens of films, including: ‘Jesus of Nazareth’ in 1977 where she played Mary and the original 1990 two-part miniseries adaptation of Stephen King’s “It.” She also voice acted for animated projects like show “Batman Beyond” and game “Star Wars: The Old Republic.”
She was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina and starred in Franco Zeffirelli’s “Romeo and Juliet” at just 15 years old.
She and her “Romeo and Juliet” costar Leonard Whiting filed a suit last year against Paramount Pictures, alleging sexual abuse, sexual harassment and fraud connected to the film. Both stars were minors at the time of filming and the suit, which was later thrown out by a Los Angeles judge, alleged they were forced to film some scenes nude.
She is survived by her children Alex, Max and India, her husband of 35 years David Glen Eisley, and her grandson Greyson.
“As we grieve this immense loss, we also celebrate Olivia’s enduring impact on our lives and the industry,” her family said in a statement. “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.”