Early Life and Breakthrough Role
Born Olivia Osuna on April 17, 1951, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Hussey moved to London during her childhood. She pursued acting at the Italia Conti Academy, where her talent was evident from a young age. At just 15, she was cast as Juliet in Zeffirelli’s “Romeo and Juliet,” a role that catapulted her to international fame. Her performance earned her a Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year and a David di Donatello Award, marking her as a standout actress of her generation.
Diverse Acting Career
Following her success in “Romeo and Juliet,” Hussey took on a variety of roles that showcased her versatility. She starred as Jess in the 1974 cult classic horror film “Black Christmas” and portrayed the Virgin Mary in the 1977 miniseries “Jesus of Nazareth.” Her filmography also includes appearances in “Death on the Nile” (1978), “Psycho IV: The Beginning” (1990), and “It” (1990). Her last onscreen role was in the 2015 film “Social Suicide,” a modern take on the Romeo and Juliet narrative.
Personal Life and Challenges
Hussey’s personal life was marked by both triumphs and challenges. She was married three times and had three children: Alexander Gunther Martin, Maximillian Hussey Fuse, and actress India Eisley. In 2008, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a double mastectomy. After nearly a decade in remission, the cancer returned in 2017, leading to further treatments.
Legacy and Memoir
In 2018, Hussey published her memoir, “The Girl on the Balcony: Olivia Hussey Finds Life After Romeo and Juliet,” offering an intimate look into her life, career, and the experiences that shaped her. Her passing is a significant loss to the film industry, but her performances continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
Final Years
In her later years, Hussey remained connected to her “Romeo and Juliet” co-star, Leonard Whiting. In December 2022, they jointly filed a lawsuit against Paramount Pictures, alleging that director Franco Zeffirelli had coerced them into performing a nude scene without their consent during the filming of “Romeo and Juliet.” The lawsuit was eventually dismissed in October 2024.
Olivia Hussey’s life was a testament to her dedication to the arts and her resilience in the face of personal and professional challenges. Her legacy endures through her memorable performances and the impact she had on the world of cinema.
