Burt Young, the iconic actor renowned for his portrayal of Paulie in the "Rocky" movies, passed away on October 8 in Los Angeles at the age of 83. The cause of death remains undisclosed as per the family's announcement.
While Young left an indelible mark with his roles in acclaimed works like "Chinatown," "Once Upon a Time in America," and "The Sopranos," he will forever be cherished as Paulie, Sylvester Stallone's gruff and lovable sidekick in the "Rocky" franchise.
Originally from Queens, New York, Young's journey to fame involved serving in the Marine Corps, a stint as a professional boxer, and working as a carpet layer before embarking on his acting career. His training under the legendary Lee Strasberg at the Actors Studio shaped his versatile performances on stage, film, and television.
Paulie, a character first introduced in the 1976 film "Rocky," started as an angry and foul-mouthed meatpacker. As the series progressed, Paulie underwent significant development, transitioning into a source of comic relief and endearing himself to the audience.
Young's outstanding performance in "Rocky" earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor, solidifying his place in cinematic history. Stallone paid tribute to his dear friend on Instagram, expressing sorrow for the loss of an incredible man and artist.
Beyond "Rocky," Young showcased his acting prowess in diverse projects like "Chinatown," "Once Upon a Time in America," and a memorable appearance in "The Sopranos." In his later years, Young focused on theater roles and pursued his passion for painting, achieving recognition through gallery exhibitions and sales.
Burt Young's legacy is not only one of a tough and talented actor but also an artist who left an indomitable impact on both the big screen and the art world.
