Burt Young, famous for playing Paulie in “Rocky,” died Oct. 8 in Los Angeles. He was 83.
His daughter, Anne Morea Steingieser, confirmed his death. Young was a talented, respected actor who often played the role of the bad guy, a mobster, or a police officer. He was known for portraying expressive, complex characters with attitude and spunk. Young received an Oscar nomination for supporting actor for his performance in the original ‘Rocky’ film in 1976, according to The New York Times. Young’s cause of death was not revealed.
This scene alone earned Burt Young an Oscar nomination for Rocky. #RIP#Rocky #BurtYoung #RIPBurtYoung pic.twitter.com/Pai3ORAo5w
— MOVIEDEATHS (@MOVIEDEATHBLOWS) October 19, 2023
Young’s prolific career was honored with a number of accolades, and his decades-long footprint in the entertainment industry was greatly respected by fans and colleagues.
Aside from his legendary role in “Rocky,” he was also a passionate performer that was recognized for his work in “Chinatown,” and “Once Upon a Time in America.”
Outside of his career as an actor, Young had an extensive background as a Marine, and went on to become a professional boxer, according to The New York Times.
RIP, Gerald Tommaso DeLouise better known professionally as Burt Young.
“Once Upon A Time In America”(1984).
As Joe Minaldi in “Cock Insurance’ scene.
“Life is funnier than shit. But… be easy with the girl. I mean that. Be easy with the girl.” pic.twitter.com/JqmViNuTwi
— Boston Radio Watch®️ (@bostonradio) October 19, 2023
Young and filmmaker Sam Peckinpah maintained a longtime friendship on and off the set and spoke highly of his colleague. Peckinpah directed Young in “The Killer Elite” and “Convoy.” (RELATED: ‘Dark Shadows’ And ‘The Incredible Hulk’ Star Dead At 84)
The famous actor was as popular on the small screen as he was on the big screen, with television credits such as “M*A*S*H,” “The Gang That Couldn’t Shoot Straight” and “Cinderella Liberty” under his belt.
Tributes continue to pour in as loved ones remember the special times they shared with Young.
Young is survived by his daughter, Anne, brother, Robert, and a grandson. He was widowed when his wife, Gloria, died in 1974.