A look at “Rocky Stars React To The Death Of Burt Young” Another actor involved with the “Rocky” franchise posted a tribute to Burt Young after his death. Carl Weathers, who appeared in numerous “Rocky” films as Rocky’s rival-turned-friend Apollo Creed, mourned the loss of Young with a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. The post reads: “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.”
Who Is Burt Young?
Burt Young (born Gerald Tommaso DeLouise on April 30, 1940 – died October 8, 2023) was an American actor, author, and painter. He played Rocky Balboa’s brother-in-law and best friend Paulie Pennino in the Rocky film series, his performance in the first installment of which earned him a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. He is one of four actors (the other three being Sylvester Stallone, Stu Nahan, and Tony Burton) who have appeared in all of the first six Rocky films (although Talia Shire, who appears in the first five films, makes a flashback appearance in the sixth).
Young was born in Corona, Queens, New York City, to Italian-American parents. He served in the United States Marine Corps from 1958 to 1962. After leaving the Marines, he studied acting at the Actors Studio under Lee Strasberg.
Young began his acting career in the early 1970s, appearing in films such as “The Gang That Couldn’t Shoot Straight” (1971), “Across 110th Street” (1972), and “Chinatown” (1974). He was cast as Paulie Pennino in the 1976 film “Rocky” after Stallone saw him perform in a production of “A Streetcar Named Desire.” Young’s performance in “Rocky” was critically acclaimed, and he was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
Young reprised his role as Paulie Pennino in all of the subsequent Rocky films. He also appeared in a number of other films and television shows, including “The Godfather Part II” (1974), “Convoy” (1978), “The Gambler” (1974), and “The Sopranos” (2000-2007).
Young was a talented actor with a wide range. He was known for his ability to play both tough and vulnerable characters. He was also a passionate advocate for the arts and for education.
In addition to his acting career, Young was also a painter and a writer. He published two books: “Burt Young’s Greatest Hits” (1976) and “Rocky: My Story” (1980).
Young died on October 8, 2023, at the age of 83. He is survived by his wife, Gloria, and their two children.
Rocky Stars React To The Death Of Burt Young
Outside of “Rocky” stars, several other notable talents from across the industry spoke out regarding Young’s death. Actor James Woods, who worked with Young on several projects, tweeted a message remembering Young. “Burt Young was a unique and authentic actor,” the post reads. “When he played a role, you couldn’t imagine anyone else. We did ‘Once Upon a Time in America’ and a little independent called ‘Kicked in the Head’ together. RIP, my friend.”
“The Brady Bunch” star Maureen McCormick also shared a picture of herself and Young together along with some similarly warm words for the late star. “Rest In Peace Burt Young,” her post reads. “What a great actor and a sweetheart of a man. My deepest condolences to his family.”
Burt Young’s Net Worth Before Death
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Burt Young’s net worth at the time of his death was $2 million. He earned this money from his successful acting career, which spanned over 50 years.
Young was a talented actor with a wide range, and he was known for his ability to play both tough and vulnerable characters. He was also a passionate advocate for the arts and for education.
You may also like: Todd McFarlane Wife: Who Is Wanda Kolomyjec? Daughter Cyan, Kate, and Jake McFarlane
