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Olivia Hussey Eisley, Beloved Star of Romeo and Juliet and Black Christmas, Dies at 73
Dec
Olivia Hussey Eisley, the Golden Globe-winning actress celebrated for her iconic roles in Romeo and Juliet (1968) and Black Christmas (1974), passed away on December 27 at the age of 73. Her family confirmed the news, stating that she died peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones.
A Life of Art, Passion, and Family
In a heartfelt statement, Hussey’s family reflected on her remarkable legacy. “Olivia was a remarkable person whose warmth, wisdom, and pure kindness touched the lives of all who knew her,” they wrote. “She lived a life full of passion, love, and dedication to the arts, spirituality, and kindness towards animals.”
Hussey is survived by her husband of 35 years, musician David Glen Eisley, her three children, Alex, Max, and India, and her grandson, Greyson.
A Star is Born
Born Olivia Osuna in Buenos Aires in 1951, Hussey moved to London as a child, where she studied drama at the Italia Conti Academy. Her breakout role came at age 15 when Franco Zeffirelli cast her as Juliet in his adaptation of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The film became a global sensation, earning Hussey a Golden Globe for New Star of the Year – Actress.
Her co-star, Leonard Whiting, who played Romeo, issued a moving tribute: “We have shared so much since we were two sweet innocent children clinging onto each other for dear life… Rest now, my beautiful Juliet. No injustices can hurt you now. And the world will remember your beauty inside and out forever.”
From Shakespeare to Slasher Films
Hussey’s career extended far beyond her Romeo and Juliet fame. In the 1970s, she took on diverse roles, including leading Bob Clark’s Black Christmas, a genre-defining slasher that remains a cult classic. She also starred in Zeffirelli’s Jesus of Nazareth as Mary and joined an all-star cast in Death on the Nile (1978).
Later Career and Legacy
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Hussey appeared in an array of films and TV projects, including Psycho IV: The Beginning, Stephen King’s It miniseries, and Boy Meets World. Her versatility spanned genres, from dystopian sci-fi to historical dramas, making her a beloved figure across generations.
In 2018, Hussey reflected on her life and career in her memoir, The Girl on the Balcony: Olivia Hussey Finds Life After Romeo and Juliet, sharing insights into her journey as an actress and her personal triumphs and struggles.
Legal Challenges and Advocacy
Hussey and Whiting made headlines in recent years when they filed lawsuits against Paramount and the Criterion Collection, citing exploitation and the unauthorized use of nude images from Romeo and Juliet. Though the cases were dismissed, the actors’ efforts reignited conversations about child exploitation in the film industry.
Remembering a Star
Olivia Hussey Eisley leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and artistry. From her timeless portrayal of Juliet to her unforgettable roles in cult classics, her work continues to inspire audiences worldwide.
Her family’s statement concluded: “As we grieve this immense loss, we also celebrate Olivia’s enduring impact on our lives and the industry. She was truly a special soul.”
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