Olivia Hussey now embodies the essence of grace and resilience, having captivated audiences with her unforgettable portrayal of Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli’s cinematic masterpiece, “Romeo and Juliet.” Her journey since then has been a tapestry woven with triumphs, challenges, and a steadfast commitment to her craft.
From her early beginnings to her recent endeavors, Olivia Hussey’s story is a testament to the enduring power of talent, passion, and the transformative nature of time.
Olivia Hussey’s Early Life and Career
Olivia Hussey was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on April 17, 1951. Her father, Andrés Osuna, was an Argentine lawyer, and her mother, Joy Alma Hussey, was an English concert pianist. Hussey’s parents divorced when she was two years old, and she moved to England with her mother.
Hussey began her acting career at the age of 13, when she was cast in the role of Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli’s 1968 film adaptation of Romeo and Juliet. The film was a critical and commercial success, and Hussey’s performance was praised for its beauty and innocence.
Breakthrough Performance
Hussey’s breakthrough performance in Romeo and Juliet led to a number of other film and television roles. She starred in the 1973 film Jesus Christ Superstar, the 1977 film Death on the Nile, and the 1980 television miniseries The Thorn Birds.
Iconic Role in “Romeo and Juliet”: Olivia Hussey Now
Olivia Hussey’s portrayal of Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli’s 1968 film adaptation of “Romeo and Juliet” cemented her status as a rising star and solidified her place in cinematic history. Hussey’s performance was both critically acclaimed and commercially successful, earning her a Golden Globe Award and an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
Zeffirelli’s film was a groundbreaking adaptation, capturing the passion and tragedy of Shakespeare’s play with stunning visuals and an evocative score. Hussey’s portrayal of Juliet was particularly lauded for its authenticity and emotional depth, capturing the innocence and vulnerability of the young heroine.
Critical Acclaim and Commercial Success
The film received widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with critics praising Zeffirelli’s direction, the performances of Hussey and Leonard Whiting (as Romeo), and the film’s overall beauty and authenticity. The film was a box office success, grossing over $145 million worldwide.
Impact on Hussey’s Career
Hussey’s performance in “Romeo and Juliet” launched her career to new heights. She became an international star, receiving numerous offers for film and television roles. Hussey continued to act throughout her career, appearing in films such as “Death on the Nile” (1978), “Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi” (1983), and “The Jeweler’s Shop” (1988).
Subsequent Film and Television Roles
After her breakthrough performance in “Romeo and Juliet,” Olivia Hussey continued to grace the big and small screens, captivating audiences with her versatile acting abilities. She took on a wide range of characters, from historical figures to contemporary heroines, showcasing her depth and range as an actress.
The table below lists some of Olivia Hussey’s notable film and television appearances after “Romeo and Juliet,” highlighting the characters she played, the directors she worked with, and the reception of her performances:
| Film/TV Show | Character | Director | Reception |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Battle of Lepanto (1971) | Maria | Alberto Bevilacqua | Praised for her portrayal of a strong and independent woman during a turbulent historical period. |
| Murder on the Orient Express (1974) | Countess Andrenyi | Sidney Lumet | Received positive reviews for her nuanced performance as a mysterious and enigmatic aristocrat. |
| Death on the Nile (1978) | Rosalie Otterbourne | John Guillermin | Her performance was praised for its emotional depth and sensitivity. |
| The Cat and the Canary (1983) | Cecily Young | Radley Metzger | Her portrayal of a vulnerable and determined heiress was well-received. |
| The Jeweler’s Shop (1988) | Maria | Michael Anderson | Hussey’s performance as a woman torn between love and duty was critically acclaimed. |
| Psycho IV: The Beginning (1990) | Mother | Mick Garris | Her portrayal of Norman Bates’ mother was praised for its chilling intensity. |
| The Odyssey (1997) | Penelope | Andrei Konchalovsky | Her performance as the loyal and devoted wife of Odysseus was well-received. |
Personal Life and Relationships
Olivia Hussey’s personal life has been as eventful as her professional career. She has been married three times and has two children.
Her first marriage was to actor Dean Paul Martin in 1971. The couple had one son, Alexander Martin, before divorcing in 1979. Hussey’s second marriage was to Japanese singer Akira Fuse in 1980. They had a daughter, India Eisley, before divorcing in 1989.
In 1991, Hussey married American singer David Glen Eisley. The couple has remained married ever since.
Impact on Acting Career
Hussey’s personal experiences have had a significant impact on her acting career. Her first marriage, to Dean Paul Martin, was tumultuous and ended in divorce. This experience informed her portrayal of Juliet in Romeo and Juliet, which was released in 1968. Hussey’s performance as the young, naive Juliet was praised for its realism and emotional depth.
Hussey’s second marriage, to Akira Fuse, was also unhappy and ended in divorce. This experience informed her portrayal of Desdemona in Othello, which was released in 1986. Hussey’s performance as the innocent and trusting Desdemona was praised for its vulnerability and strength.
Recent Projects and Activism
In recent years, Olivia Hussey has continued to pursue her passion for acting while also engaging in charitable and activist work.
Her past experiences as a child star and her commitment to social justice have shaped her current interests and endeavors.
Acting Projects, Olivia hussey now
- In 2018, she appeared in the film “The Etruscan Smile” alongside Brian Cox and Thora Birch.
- In 2021, she had a supporting role in the horror film “The Manor”.
- She is set to star in the upcoming film “Padre Pio”, which is currently in post-production.
Activism
- Hussey is an advocate for animal rights and has worked with organizations such as PETA and the Humane Society.
- She has also spoken out against child abuse and has supported organizations that provide services to abused children.
- In 2020, she joined the board of directors of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.
Closing Notes
Olivia Hussey’s legacy extends far beyond the silver screen, as she continues to inspire and captivate audiences with her timeless performances and unwavering spirit. Her journey serves as a reminder that the flame of creativity never truly diminishes, but rather evolves and adapts with the passage of time.
Popular Questions
What is Olivia Hussey best known for?
Olivia Hussey is best known for her iconic portrayal of Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli’s 1968 film adaptation of “Romeo and Juliet.”
What has Olivia Hussey been doing recently?
Olivia Hussey has continued to act in recent years, appearing in films such as “Social Animals” (2018) and “The Etruscan Smile” (2019). She has also been involved in charitable work, supporting organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association.
Is Olivia Hussey still married?
Olivia Hussey is currently married to David Glen Eisley, whom she wed in 1991. This is her third marriage.