Zeffirelli first approached Hussey about starring in the film a few weeks after the premiere of "Romeo and Juliet (1968)". He sent her a copy of the original book with a note that said “You are my Marguerite Gautier”. The two year long publicity tour for "Romeo and Juliet (1968)", stalled the project as Hussey and Zeffirelli traveled the world to promote the film. After the tour, Zeffirelli had trouble finding finances and a studio for the project. Meanwhile, Hussey starred in "All The Right Noises (1971)", got out of an abusive relationship with Christopher Jones, and later married Dean Paul Martin in 1971.