Burt Young, the acclaimed actor renowned for his role as Paulie Pennino in the iconic Rocky film series, has died at the age of 83.

His daughter Anne Morea Steingieser confirmed he passed away on 8 October, and no cause was given.

While Young’s career included notable performances in films including Chinatown, Once Upon A Time In America and TV series such as The Sopranos, he will always be cherished for his portrayal of the gruff and endearing Paulie, Sylvester Stallone’s brother-in-law in the Rocky movies.

In the original 1976 film, Paulie’s character – an embittered meat packer in Philadelphia – captivated audiences with his raw authenticity. Young’s ability to embody middle-aged characters regardless of his age added depth to his roles.

The Rocky franchise achieved phenomenal success, propelling Stallone to stardom and securing Young’s place in cinematic history.

Stallone shared a photo from their first film together and wrote: “You were an incredible man and artist, I and the World will miss you very much.”

Rocky was nominated for 10 Oscars, with Young earning a nod for best supporting actor.

Netflix hikes UK prices – and reveals impact of password sharing ban

BBC soap Doctors set to be cancelled after 23 years

Big Brother producers reprimand contestant for inappropriate language

The movie triumphed in three categories, including the prestigious best picture award. However, Young and his co-star Burgess Meredith lost to Jason Robards from All The President’s Men.

Read more on Sky News:
Netflix hikes UK prices
BBC soap cancelled after 23 years

Throughout the series, Paulie’s character undergoes a transformation. Initially a perpetual worrier, Paulie’s scepticism about Rocky’s success provided comic relief.

Despite his constant fear of Rocky getting defeated, Paulie’s surprise at Rocky’s resilience brought laughter to audiences, making him a beloved character in the films.

“It was a great ride, and it brought me to the audience in a great way,” Young said in an interview with Celebrity Parents magazine in 2020. “I made him a rough guy with a sensitivity. He’s really a marshmallow even though he yells a lot.”

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

Born and raised in Queens, New York, Burt Young had a diverse life before his acting career. He served in the Marine Corps, was a professional boxer, and worked as a carpet layer. He later pursued acting, studying under renowned teacher Lee Strasberg at the Actors Studio.

In his later years, he focused on theatre and his passion for painting. His wife of 13 years, Gloria, died in 1974. He is survived by his daughter, a grandchild, and a brother.

Related posts:

Black Widow, Luxe House Sydney and The Surrogate Hollywood facing shutdown as behind-the-scenes workers vote to strike Ukrainian president was his country’s voice of Paddington Bear Was Chris Rock wearing a cheek pad at the Oscars when Will Smith slapped him? ‘Kindest, wisest man I knew’: Ant McPartlin pays tribute to TV presenting partner’s brother J Lo wipes her Instagram as her social media profiles mysteriously go black Jonnie Irwin ‘fears his children won’t remember him’ after terminal cancer diagnosis Ed Sheeran reveals wife was diagnosed with tumour while pregnant as he confirms details of new album Jennifer Aniston says there’s a ‘whole generation’ who will find Friends episodes ‘offensive’ Paul O’Grady: Last picture of couple shared by husband Andre Portasio Saving cinema: Why chains can’t just rely on blockbusters and bad weather Kristen Bell says her children like to drink non-alcoholic beer