Olivia Hussey - Olivia Hussey Joins 1066 Cast

The Argentina-born star, who shot to fame after playing Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli’s 1968 classic Romeo & Juliet, has been brought out of semi-retirement to play Countess Gytha in the star-studded period war film.

Announcing the casting news on Monday (21May12), 1066 director Robin Jacob tells WENN, "We are extremely happy to announce the attachment of Ms Olivia Hussey to the 1066 Project. Countess Gytha was the wife of Earl Godwin, the powerful leader of the Godwin dynasty and mother to future King Harold ll; she was an immensely strong woman who had some incredible life experiences that shaped her character.

"I believe that Olivia will bring Gytha to life, she is a tremendously versatile actress with the depth and substance that is essential to the role."

The film, an "historically accurate portrayal of almost half a century of intrigue, the people, politics and power struggles that lead to the great battle at Hastings on October 14th 1066 between King Harold II and William Duke of Normandy", also features British stars Susan George, Lewis Collins, John Altman and Matt Fiddes, who was formerly Michael Jackson's bodyguard.