Olivia Hussey dies at 73 yesterday on 27th December. She is an iconic British-Argentine actress, best known for her portrayal of Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli’s 1968 film Romeo and Juliet. Born on April 17, 1951, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Hussey became internationally famous for her stunning performance in the role of the tragic Shakespearean heroine, which earned her a Golden Globe nomination.
Early Life and Career:
Olivia Hussey was born in Argentina to a British father and an Argentine mother. She moved to England at a young age, where she pursued acting. Her breakthrough came with her role as Juliet, a performance that became one of the most memorable portrayals of the character in film history. The film was a major critical and commercial success, and Hussey’s portrayal of Juliet was praised for its emotional depth and natural beauty.
Notable Roles:
1. Romeo and Juliet (1968): Hussey’s portrayal of Juliet in this classic adaptation of William Shakespeare’s play is considered one of her signature roles. The film earned her widespread recognition and established her as a leading actress.
2. Black Christmas (1974): Hussey starred in this Canadian horror film, which is considered one of the first slasher films and a precursor to later works like Halloween (1978). Her role as a college student being stalked by an anonymous killer earned her further acclaim in the genre.
3. The Last Summer (1974): Another notable film of her career, in which she played the role of a young woman caught in an emotional summer romance.
4. Jesus of Nazareth (1977): Hussey played Mary, the mother of Jesus, in the acclaimed television miniseries directed by Franco Zeffirelli. Her performance in this historical religious drama added to her versatility as an actress.
Personal Life:
Olivia Hussey’s personal life has been marked by various significant events. She was married to Dean Paul Martin, the son of singer Dean Martin, but their marriage ended tragically when he died in a plane crash in 1987. She later married Terry L. McGovern, and the couple has children together.
Legacy and Impact:
Olivia Hussey remains a beloved figure in film, particularly in the world of classic cinema. Her portrayal of Juliet is often cited as one of the most genuine and compelling performances in any adaptation of Romeo and Juliet. In the horror genre, Black Christmas has also garnered a cult following, and she is recognized as a pioneering figure in slasher films.
Hussey’s career is a testament to her diverse acting skills, as she seamlessly moved between romantic drama, horror, and historical epics. Despite stepping back from the limelight in recent years, her influence in film, especially in the late 1960s and 1970s, remains significant.
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