Burt Young, the celebrated actor renowned for his portrayal of Paulie in the iconic “Rocky” series, has recently passed away at the age of 83. While the cause of his death remains unknown, his legacy in the world of cinema is undeniable.
With over 160 credits to his name, Burt Young’s contribution to the film industry was vast, but it was his role as Paulie, Sylvester Stallone’s brother-in-law, that left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide. His portrayal in six of the “Rocky” films, starting with the first in the series, garnered him widespread recognition and even an Academy Award nomination.
See a clip from the movie below.
Upon hearing of Young’s passing, Sylvester Stallone took to Instagram to pay tribute.”To my Dear Friend, BURT YOUNG, you were an incredible man and artist, I and the World will miss you very much…RIP,” he wrote. Their on-screen chemistry and enduring friendship were a testament to Young’s incredible talent.
While his role in “Rocky” defined him for many, Young’s career extended well beyond the boxing ring. He shared the screen with Hollywood legends like Jack Nicholson in “Chinatown” as well as Rodney Dangerfield in “Back to School.” His ability to evoke a broad spectrum of emotions made him a versatile actor. “Burt was an actor of tremendous emotional range. He could make you cry, and he could scare you to death,” said his manager, Lynda Bensky.
In the 1970s, Young collaborated with another Queens, New York, native, the late James Caan, in several films, including “Cinderella Liberty,” “The Gambler,” “The Killer Elite,” and “Harry and Walter Go to New York.” Their partnership extended to 1999 when they joined forces once more for “Mickey Blue Eyes.”
Young’s journey to stardom was far from conventional. He served in the U.S. Marines and pursued a career in boxing before venturing into acting. His training at the Actors Studio under Lee Strasberg honed his craft, eventually leading to a remarkable career in film.
In addition to his accomplishments in cinema, Young was also a talented painter, with his artwork displayed in galleries worldwide. His creative spirit knew no bounds, making him a truly multi-talented artist.
Young’s passing marks the end of an era in Hollywood. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come. Though the curtain has fallen on this remarkable actor’s life, his contributions to the world of film and art will forever shine to all who enjoyed his films.
How has Young’s performances in the “Rocky” series impacted your love for cinema?
