Paramount sued for $500 million over 1968 ‘Romeo & Juliet’ nude scene

Two stars of the 1968 movie adaption of “Romeo & Juliet” have sued Paramount Pictures for greater than $500 million over a nude scene the actors shot once they have been youngsters, in response to a copy obtained by CNBC.

Leonard Whiting, 72, and Olivia Hussey, 71, declare director Franco Zeffirelli “secretly” filmed them nude or partially nude with out their data regardless of earlier assurances that there could be no nudity exhibited within the Oscar-winning movie. At the time of filming, Whiting, who portrayed Romeo, was 16, and Hussey, who portrayed Juliet, was 15.

The pair filed the go well with in Los Angeles County Superior Court alleging sexual abuse, sexual harassment and fraud.

Paramount has not made any public assertion in regards to the go well with and didn’t reply to request for remark from CNBC.

According to the submitting, Zeffirelli, who died in 2019, initially advised the actors that they’d put on flesh-colored undergarments within the bed room scene during which Whiting’s naked buttocks and Hussey’s naked breasts are briefly proven. However, when the scene was shot within the ultimate days of filming, the actors have been advised they’d put on solely physique make-up and that the digital camera could be positioned in a manner that may not present nudity, in response to the go well with.

The actors stated they “believed they had no choice but to act in the nude in body makeup as demanded,” and allege the scene was in violation of California and federal legal guidelines towards indecency and the exploitation of youngsters.

The legal professional for the actors say they’re looking for $500 million in damages to match the quantity the movie has earned since 1968. Upon its launch, the movie additionally proved a vital success, successful academy awards in the very best cinematography and costume design classes, and incomes a nomination for greatest image.