Romeo and Juliet actress Olivia Hussey Eisley passes away at 73

Olivia Hussey Eisley

Olivia Hussey Eisley, renowned for her roles in the 1968 film Romeo and Juliet and the slasher classic Black Christmas, has passed away at the age of 73, as announced in a post on her Instagram page.

Olivia's team shared the heartbreaking news on her Instagram account, posting a vintage photo of her that captures her timeless beauty, accompanied by an official statement in the caption that read, "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."

The statement further continued, "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."

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Romeo and Juliet marked the breakthrough for the British-Argentine actress, earning her a Golden Globe for her stellar performance. She went on to star in the 1974 horror classic Black Christmas and also appeared in Death on the Nile.

Born in Argentina in 1951, Olivia Hussey relocated to England as a child, where she spent five years at the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts. At the age of 15, she was discovered and cast in Franco Zeffirelli's Romeo and Juliet, a role that catapulted her to international fame and earned her a Golden Globe for New Star of the Year. Hussey also gained recognition for her portrayal of Jess in the 1974 cult classic slasher Black Christmas and for playing the Virgin Mary in the 1977 miniseries Jesus of Nazareth.

She is survived by husband David Glen Eisley and three children- Alex, Max, and India.