Olivia Hussey Eisley, Star of “Romeo and Juliet” and “Black Christmas,” Dies at 73

The actress, known for her iconic roles in film and television, passed away peacefully at home.

Olivia Hussey Eisley, who acted in the 1968 Franco Zeffirelli film Romeo and Juliet and portrayed Juliet Capulet, is dead. She passed away at 73, her publicist announced through a statement on her official Instagram account. According to it, Olivia Hussey Eisley passed away on December 27, 2024. She was surrounded by her family and loved ones at the time of death.

The Argentine-British actress was an icon for her portrayal in the Shakespearean heroine during the acclaimed film, thus earning her a Golden Globe award. Apart from being part of Romeo and Juliet, Hussey Eisley also became known for taking part in the 1974 horror classic Black Christmas, which has since gained a cult following.

Olivia Hussey Eisley contributed to a number of different films and television projects during her career. She was featured in the 1978 film Death on the Nile, as well as collaborating with Zeffirelli again for the 1977 mini-series Jesus of Nazareth. She remained active through the 1990s and early 2000s with appearances in Psycho IV: The Beginning, It, the 1990 mini-series, and Mother Teresa. Here's a long-lasting impact in cinema created by the horror and drama performances of Hussey Eisley.

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on April 17, 1951, she was a passionate advocate for animals and a spiritual individual with a deep love for the arts. She is survived by her children, her husband of 35 years, David Glen Eisley, and her grandson. Her family described her as a person of warmth, wisdom, and kindness who touched the lives of all who knew her.

This marks the end of an era for fans of classic cinema, as Olivia Hussey Eisley’s legacy continues to inspire both new generations and long-time admirers of her groundbreaking work.