Olivia Hussey, the iconic actress known for her role as Juliet in the 1968 film “Romeo and Juliet,” has stepped into the spotlight once again after 50 years.
In her new book, “The Girl on the Balcony,” she reminisces about the highs and lows of her life.
Hussey, now 67, reflects on her remarkable journey, saying, “It's been quite a life.
I feel grateful that I survived it all.”
Hailing from Buenos Aires but raised in London, she was catapulted to stardom at just 15 when she landed the lead role in Franco Zeffirelli's acclaimed movie.
The sudden fame and adoration caught her off guard.
“So much happened so fast,” Hussey recalls.
“It was overnight superstardom, and I wasn't prepared for it.”
Amidst the whirlwind, she found solace in her relationship with fellow actor Christopher Jones, introduced to her by her agent, Rudi Altobelli.
However, their romance took a dark turn when Jones turned abusive.
Despite the mistreatment, she remained loyal, citing her youth and love for him as reasons.
During this tumultuous period, Hussey had a memorable encounter with Sharon Tate, who was tragically murdered in 1969 along with others at Altobelli's residence.
The shocking news shattered her, but she eventually moved into the house, feeling Tate's positive energy lingering.
Tragedy struck closer to home when Jones violently assaulted and raped Hussey at the same residence.
The traumatic incident left her physically and emotionally scarred.
Despite keeping the attack private and opting for an abortion upon discovering her pregnancy, she emerged stronger.
Finding love and support in Dean Paul Martin, son of Dean Martin, brought light back into her life.
Their marriage blessed them with a son, Alex.
Although they parted ways in 1979 due to Martin's tragic death in a plane crash, they remained close.
Hussey later had another son, Max, with her second husband before settling down with rocker David Glen Eisley, with whom she shares a daughter, India.
Reflecting on her tumultuous past, she emphasizes the importance of resilience and finding happiness despite life's challenges.
