AceShowbiz - In 2022, Olivia Hussey and Leonard Whiting filed a lawsuit against Paramount Pictures, alleging that they were pressured into filming a nude scene in the 1968 adaptation of "Romeo & Juliet" as 16- and 17-year-olds, despite assurances that the footage would not be used. The case was dismissed due to the statute of limitations, but the pair filed another lawsuit earlier this year, focusing on the Criterion Collection's 2023 re-release of the film.

However, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Holly J. Fujie dismissed the second lawsuit, stating that "a comparison of the 2023 release with the prior versions shows no significant visible improvement in the film, particularly in the Bedroom Scene." The judge also noted that Hussey and Whiting had participated in anniversary screenings and other events related to the film over the years, which she interpreted as a "continuous affirmation of consent."

Hussey, in a written declaration, expressed embarrassment over what she perceived as "prurient" alterations to the scene in the Criterion release, which she attributed to Paramount's desire for retaliation. However, Judge Fujie rejected this claim, citing a lack of evidence.

The attorneys for Paramount and Criterion Collection declined to comment on the ruling. Hussey's lawyer, William A. Romaine, stated that he would recommend an appeal, arguing that the judge's order was "outside the law."

The dismissal marks the second time that Hussey and Whiting's legal challenges have been unsuccessful. A previous lawsuit was dismissed in May 2023, and their appeal of that ruling was denied in April 2024.

Judge Fujie's decision highlights the difficulty in pursuing legal action over decades-old sexual misconduct allegations, especially when the alleged offenses involve artistic works that may have historical or cultural significance.