Burt Young, who played Paulie Pennino, the best friend and eventual brother-in-law of Rocky Balboa in Rocky, and five later movies in the series, recently passed away.
Alex Williams of The New York Times reported on Wednesday that Young passed away on Oct. 8 at the age of 83. Per Williams, that was confirmed by Young’s daughter, Anne Morea Steingieser.
Carl Weathers, who co-starred in the Rocky movies as Apollo Creed, Rocky’s rival-turned-friend, paid tribute to Young, calling him “A beautiful and talented soul” and said that Young “was such an integral part of the Rocky family.”
RIP, Burt Young! A beautiful and talented soul. He was such an integral part of the Rocky family. “You want the bird? Go get the bird.” Paulie will be with us forever! #BePeace
— Carl Weathers (@TheCarlWeathers) October 19, 2023
Weathers was not alone. Far from it, in fact. Others paid tribute to Young for his role in the Rocky movies, as well as the rest of his career and life.
“Where am I supposed to watch the Rose Bowl game??”
The Rocky franchise doesn’t work without Burt Young. pic.twitter.com/U7SWKGUcl6
— Kyle Brandt (@KyleBrandt) October 19, 2023
Rest In Peace Burt Young. What a great actor and a sweetheart of a man. My deepest condolences to his family. pic.twitter.com/X4I1Gnk3YE
— Maureen McCormick (@MoMcCormick7) October 19, 2023
Terrible loss. My dear friend Burt Young. One of the greats. We’ll miss you. pic.twitter.com/Mjr3beWKwx
— Tony Danza (@TonyDanza) October 19, 2023
RIP to Burt Young, who was only 36 years old when he wielded this baseball bat in #Rocky (1976) pic.twitter.com/d7nhvQ2hG0
— Vintage Jerseys & Hats (@PolyesterUnis) October 19, 2023
Young’s experience in boxing wasn’t limited to just his role in Rocky and the subsequent sequels. Prior to acting, Young served in the United States Marine Corps. While in the Marines, Young boxed and boxed well, winning 32 of 34 bouts.
Young was one of two Rocky actors (along with Burgess Meredith, who played Rocky’s trainer, Mickey Goldmill) nominated for an Oscar at the 49th Academy Awards in 1977.
[The New York Times, Photo Credit: MovieClips on YouTube]
