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Olivia Hussey, the famous actress best known for playing Juliet in the classic 1968 film adaptation of Romeo and Juliet, died on Friday in Los Angeles at the age of 73.
Marc Huestis, event organizer and friend of the actress, confirmed the news on social networkswriting:
“I have just heard extremely sad news. My friend Olivia Hussey-Eisley has died. I adored her. She was the most beautiful Juliet in the world, both on screen and in real life. He exuded love and life in everything he did.”
An unforgettable cultural heritage
Huestis recalled his 2008 interview with Hussey, conducted in San Francisco, and the profound impact “Romeo and Juliet” had on audiences:
“When people bought tickets to my event at the Castro, they vividly remembered the first time they saw the movie—the place, the people they were with, even what they were wearing. It was clear that this film had marked the lives of many of them.”
He pointed out that the love story between Romeo (Leonard Whiting) and Juliet, in the memorable performance of Olivia, deeply influenced entire generations:
“For many, this film marked the first moments of emotional and sexual awakening, whether straight, gay or bisexual.”
A symbol of cinema
Franco Zeffirelli’s 1968 adaptation remains one of the most acclaimed adaptations of William Shakespeare’s play, thanks to the emotional intensity and acting performances of Olivia Hussey and Leonard Whiting.
Her passing is a significant loss to the world of cinema and to fans around the world who were inspired by her unique talent and sensibility.
Olivia Hussey, born Olivia Osuna on April 17, 1951, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, left an indelible mark on cinematography. The daughter of an opera singer, she entered the artistic world at a young age, debuting on television at just 13 years old, in the series “Drama”, and in cinema with the film “Battle of Villa Fiorita” (1965).
His iconic career
The real consecration came in 1968, with the role of Juliet in the masterpiece directed by Franco Zeffirelli, “Romeo and Juliet”. Her outstanding performance brought her international recognition, being awarded the David di Donatello Award and a Golden Globe for “New Star of the Year – Actress” in 1969.
Hussey went on to star in notable films such as:
– “Lost Horizon” (1973), a musical remake that, although not successful, proved his versatility.
– “Black Christmas” (1974), considered one of the first slasher films and a reference in the horror genre.
– “Jesus of Nazareth” (1977), TV movie also directed by Zeffirelli, in which he played Mary, the mother of Jesus.
– “Death on the Nile” (1978), a classic mystery based on Agatha Christie’s novel.
In 1987, she appeared in Michael Jackson’s famous music video ‘Liberian Girl’ and in 1990 she played the role of Norman Bates’ mother in the prequel ‘Psycho IV: The Beginning’. In 2015, he collaborated again with Leonard Whiting, his “Romeo and Juliet” co-star, in the film “Social Suicide.”
Fighting disease and resilience
Olivia Hussey has faced health challenges throughout her life, being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008, a disease she has been able to beat. Unfortunately, the cancer returned in 2018, causing her to drop out of future projects, including the sequel to “Black Christmas” in “It’s Me, Billy: Chapter 2.”
Olivia Hussey was an actress with a diverse career and memorable screen presence. From her generation-defining role as Juliet to her later projects, she has remained an iconic figure and a source of inspiration.
Source: www.doctorulzilei.ro
