HOLLYWOOD—Actress Olivia Hussey, who starred in “Romeo and Juliet,” has died at the age of 73, her family announced on Friday, December 27.
The actresses’ family announced the news on her Instagram page stating:
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Olivia Hussey Eisley, who went peacefully at home surrounded by her loved ones on December 27th. Olivia was a remarkable person whose warmth, wisdom, and pure kindness touched the lives of all who knew her. Born on April 17th, 1951 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Olivia lived a life full of passion, love and dedication to the arts, spirituality, and kindness towards animals. Olivia leaves behind a loving family – her children, Alex, Max and India, her husband of 35 years David Glen Eisley, and grandson, Greyson, and a legacy of love that will forever be cherished in our hearts. As we grieve this immense loss, we also celebrate Olivia’s enduring impact on our lives and the industry. 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 got her start in acting with a breakout role in Franco Zeffirelli’s 1968 movie adaptation of “Romeo and Juliet.” She won the Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year in 1969 for her performance. She became known by many for her performance in the 1974 Canadian slasher, “Black Christmas” where she portrayed Jess Bradford. The film was heled by Bob Clark, and the movie is coined by many as being the first to usher in the slasher subgenre of horror.
She also appeared in the films “Death on the Nile,” “The Cat and the Canary,” “Distortions,” “Undeclared War” and her final film appearance was in the movie, “Social Suicide” in 2015. Th actress was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008 and had a double mastectomy. Her breast cancer returned in 2017 after a decade of being in remission. She died at her Los Angeles home surrounded by family.
