Actor shot to fame after being cast in Franco Zeffirelli’s 1968 film adaptation of Shakespeare’s play when she was just 15
By Roisin O’Connor
Olivia Hussey, who mesmerised audiences as the female lead in Franco Zeffirelli’s 1968 adaptation of Romeo and Juliet, has died aged 73.
The news was shared from her official Instagram account in a statement that said the Argentina-born star died “at home, surrounded by her loved ones”.
Hussey was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008 and underwent a double mastectomy. The illness returned in 2017 and she underwent treatment to remove a small tumour growing between her heart and lungs.
“Olivia was a remarkable person whose warmth, wisdom and pure kindness touched the lives of all who knew her,” her family’s statement said.
It continued: “Olivia lived a life full of passion, love, and dedication to the arts, spirituality, and kindness towards animals.”
Source: Olivia Hussey, captivating star of Romeo and Juliet, dies aged 73 | The Independent