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Renowned actress Olivia Hussey Eisley, celebrated for her iconic roles in Romeo and Juliet (1968) and the cult horror classic Black Christmas (1974), has passed away at the age of 73.
The news was confirmed through a heartfelt announcement on her Instagram page, revealing that she died peacefully at home on 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,” the statement read.
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Born on April 17, 1951, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Hussey Eisley rose to international fame with her portrayal of Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli’s adaptation of Romeo and Juliet. At just 15 years old, her performance earned her a Golden Globe Award, cementing her place as a rising star in Hollywood.
The production, however, was not without controversy. In late 2022, Hussey Eisley and co-star Leonard Whiting sued Paramount Studios over nude scenes filmed when they were minors, alleging they were coerced by Zeffirelli. The lawsuit was dismissed in May 2023.
Following her breakthrough, Hussey Eisley’s filmography expanded to include memorable roles in the 1974 horror film Black Christmas and the 1978 adaptation of Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile. She also reunited with Zeffirelli to portray Mary in the 1977 TV miniseries Jesus of Nazareth.
Her career spanned decades, with notable roles in Stephen King’s It miniseries, Psycho IV: The Beginning, and the biographical film Mother Teresa. In the early 2000s, she appeared in the thriller El Grito and the comedy Tortilla Heaven.
Beyond her professional achievements, Hussey Eisley was remembered for her dedication to the arts, spirituality, and animal welfare.
She is survived by her husband of 35 years, musician David Glen Eisley; her children, Alex, Max, and India; her grandson, Greyson; and a legacy that continues to inspire.
“As we grieve this immense loss, we also celebrate Olivia’s enduring impact on our lives and the industry,” her family shared in their 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.”
Hussey Eisley’s contributions to film and television leave an indelible mark, her performances immortalised in the hearts of audiences worldwide.
