Beloved ‘Rocky’ Star Burt Young, Oscar Nominee, Passes Away at 83

Beloved ‘Rocky’ Star Burt Young, Oscar Nominee, Passes Away at 83

Burt Young, the Legendary “Rocky” Star, Passes Away at 83

The iconic actor, Burt Young, celebrated for his unforgettable role as Paulie in the “Rocky” series, has sadly passed away at the age of 83, as confirmed by his manager to ABC News.

An Actor of Immense Depth
Burt Young was known for his incredible emotional range, capable of bringing tears or sending shivers down your spine. However, it was the profound poignancy of his soul that truly set him apart, as expressed by his manager, Lynda Bensky.

A Hollywood Journey
Young’s remarkable Hollywood journey spanned an impressive six decades. In 1974, he portrayed Curly alongside Jack Nicholson, Faye Dunaway, and John Huston in “Chinatown.” That same year, he took on the role of Carmine opposite James Caan in “The Gambler,” a film following a professor’s descent into gambling debt.

Television Triumphs
During the 1970s, Young also made waves on the small screen. His appearances in TV movies like “Hustling” (1975), and shows like “Serpico” and “The Rockford Files” (both in 1976) showcased his versatile talent.

The Iconic Paulie
However, Young’s enduring claim to fame was his portrayal of Paulie, Sylvester Stallone’s lovable yet irascible brother-in-law in the “Rocky” saga. He featured in all six movies, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor in a Supporting Role for the first film in 1977.

Tribute from Sylvester Stallone
Sylvester Stallone paid a heartfelt tribute to his dear friend, Burt Young, on Instagram, expressing the world’s profound loss and his personal grief at Young’s passing.

A Legacy Beyond “Rocky”
Burt Young’s legacy extends beyond “Rocky.” His role in the 1978 cult classic “Convoy,” directed by Sam Peckinpah, remains a memorable highlight. In recent years, he made appearances in Netflix’s “Russian Doll,” leaving an indelible mark on both the big and small screens.

Burt Young’s passing marks the end of an era, leaving behind a wealth of unforgettable performances that will continue to inspire and entertain generations to come.