Olivia Hussey, the beloved actress known for her iconic portrayal of Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli’s 1968 film “Romeo and Juliet,” remains one of the few performers to play the role while actually a teenager. Born in Buenos Aires and raised in London, Hussey’s youthful authenticity in the role set her apart and earned her a special place in cinematic history. Following that breakout performance, she continued to build a diverse career with appearances in films such as “Death on the Nile” (1978), “The Cat and the Canary” (1979), “Lost Horizon” (1973), “Distortions” (1987), and “Save Me” (1994).
Throughout her career, Olivia Hussey also maintained a strong presence on television, taking on guest roles, starring in TV movies, and appearing in miniseries. One of her most memorable small-screen performances came when she reunited with director Franco Zeffirelli for the 1977 miniseries “Jesus of Nazareth,” where she portrayed the Virgin Mary with quiet grace and dignity.
Olivia Hussey passed away on December 27, 2024, at the age of 73, in Burbank, California, leaving behind a legacy of elegance and talent that spanned decades.
When it comes to Olivia Hussey’s filmography, one standout performance definitely comes to mind—her role in Romeo and Juliet (1968), which remains her highest rated movie to date. It really launched Olivia Hussey into the spotlight and is still celebrated for its timeless portrayal of young love. On the other end of the spectrum, Olivia Hussey also appeared in Lost Horizon (1973), a film that unfortunately received much more negative feedback and stands as her lowest rated movie. While opinions on films can vary, it’s clear that Olivia Hussey has had a range of experiences throughout her career, with Romeo and Juliet shining as a true highlight. Olivia Hussey certainly made an impact early on, and even though not every project was a success, her work continues to be remembered, especially that iconic 1968 classic.