# The actress from *Romeo and Juliet*, Olivia, has passed away

> British actress Olivia Hussey has passed away at the age of 73. Her death was confirmed on Friday, as reported by the BBC, and announced through a post on her Instagram account. Olivia rose to fame in 1968 for her role…

Published: 2024-12-28 · Desk: Entertainment · Source: Prothom alo

British actress Olivia Hussey has passed away at the age of 73. Her death was confirmed on Friday, as reported by the BBC, and announced through a post on her Instagram account. Olivia rose to fame in 1968 for her role as Juliet in *Romeo and Juliet*, having been just 15 years old during filming. Her performance earned her widespread recognition and several accolades, including a Golden Globe Award for Best Newcomer that year.

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1951, Olivia moved to London at the age of seven, where she began studying at the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts. Director Franco Zeffirelli was looking for young actors for the lead roles in his film adaptation of William Shakespeare’s play. He discovered Olivia after attending a performance of *Prime* by Joan Brody, where Olivia starred alongside Vanessa Redgrave. Impressed by her acting, Zeffirelli offered her the role of Juliet.

In the film, British actor Leonard Whiting, 16 at the time, portrayed Romeo. *Romeo and Juliet* was nominated for four Oscars in 1968, including Best Picture and Best Director, and won awards for Best Cinematography and Best Costume Design.

While the film was a milestone in Olivia’s career, it also sparked controversy. Olivia and Leonard filed a lawsuit against Paramount Pictures, claiming they were pressured into performing nude scenes during the movie’s production. They sought $500 million in damages. Leonard accused Franco Zeffirelli of coercing them into the scenes. However, a judge dismissed the case last year, ruling that the scene was not "sexually suggestive enough" to support their claims.

Original reporting: https://www.prothomalo.com/entertainment/hollywood/jxzahmj213
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