'Romeo and Juliet' star Olivia Hussey dead at 73

Olivia Hussey's reason of demise remained undisclosed as she breathed her last surrounded by close family

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Romeo and Juliet star Olivia Hussey dead at 73
'Romeo and Juliet' star Olivia Hussey dead at 73

Olivia Hussey, renowned for her role in Romeo and Juliet, as a teenager, has died at the age of 73.

The actress rose to stardom with her portrayal of Juliet in the 1968 version of Shakespear’s classic tragic romance.

In a statement posted on her official Instagram, it was mentioned that Hussey, who grew up in London, died surrounded by her loved ones.

"As we grieve this immense loss, we also celebrate Olivia's enduring impact on our lives and the industry," the statement read.

Hussey was born in 1951 and was discovered by the Romeo and Juliet director, Franco Zeffirelli, while she performed on stage in the play The Prime of Miss Joan Brodie

He then casted Hussey, who was then, 16-years-old, alongside Leonard Whiting as Romeo in the film.

And even though the actress herself missed out on an Oscar nomination, the film did earn nods in the categories of best picture and best director.

It was, however, a strong year for Olivia Hussey, as she won the Golden Globe Award in the category of best new star, for her role as Juliet.

Some other commendable roles that she has played, includes her character of Mary, mother of Jesus, in the 1977 TV miniseries, Jesus of Nazareth.