
via Getty
WASHINGTON, DC – MAY 24: Actor Sylvester Stallone looks on during a signing ceremony to grant of Clemency for former heavyweight champion Jack Johnson in the Oval Office of the White House on May 24, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Olivier Douliery-Pool/Getty Images)

via Getty
WASHINGTON, DC – MAY 24: Actor Sylvester Stallone looks on during a signing ceremony to grant of Clemency for former heavyweight champion Jack Johnson in the Oval Office of the White House on May 24, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Olivier Douliery-Pool/Getty Images)
Burt Young, known for his unforgettable portrayal of Paulie, passed away on 8th October. In a heartfelt celebration of the life and career of this veteran actor, fans and fellow actors united with Sylvester Stallone in commemorating Young’s legacy. Burt Young, who passed away at the age of 83 in Los Angeles, left behind decades of cinematic memories and enduring friendships.
A former marine and professional boxer, Young’s background added layers of complexity to his performance on the screen. Moreover, Young’s career took off in the early 1970s after appearing in the neo-noir masterpiece Chinatown. However, it was his role in Rocky – that made him a well-known figure. So, when the news of his death reached Stallone, he turned to Instagram to share a still from their 1976 movie Rocky. As the post started circulating on Instagram, fans and celebrities poured in to celebrate the late actor.
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Fans join Sylvester Stallone in remembering good old times
Sharing the still on Instagram, Stallone wrote in the caption, “To my Dear Friend, BURT YOUNG, you were an incredible man’s and artist. I and the World will miss you very much…RIP.” On the other hand, notable names in the industry and fans expressed how Burt Young influenced their lives while raising a toast to the late actor.
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American comedian and actor Andrew Dice Clay took to the comment section to express his thoughts. Clay’s popularity peaked in the same era as Burt, and they knew each other well. Clay wrote, “So sad to hear. Got to work and hang with Burt years ago. He even taught me the sledgehammer workout and then gave me his sledgehammer as a gift. Such a sweet gentle man. Missing his presence already.”
Even Carl Weathers took to X (formerly Twitter), commemorating Burt’s career. The pair were colleagues and had worked together in the Rocky franchise. So, Carl commended Burt’s personality and acting prowess while expressing his thoughts on Burt’s passing.
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
— Carl Weathers (@TheCarlWeathers) October 19, 2023
James Woods, an Emmy award-winning actor and co-star in Once Upon a Time in America, recalled the time he worked with Burt. He called Burt a unique and authentic actor while bidding adieu to the late actor.
Burt Young was a unique and authentic actor. 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. pic.twitter.com/pfpwSIXq4K
— James Woods (@RealJamesWoods) October 19, 2023
Moreover, a film critic, Richard Roeper, chimed in, giving little titbits from Burt’s role in the movie Rocky. He claimed Burt’s character was turned into a cuddly caricature in the sequels of Rocky. In addition, Roeper praised Burt’s portrayal of Paulie.
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Burt Young’s Paulie was turned into a cuddly caricature in the “Rocky” sequels — but in the original, Mr. Young was brilliant in his portrayal of Paulie as a grubby street character straight out of a Scorsese film. RIP good sir. pic.twitter.com/38Vn5Rk14t
— Richard Roeper (@RichardERoeper) October 19, 2023
Some other fans also paid their respect to Burt. One fan commended Burt for his remarkable acting prowess. In addition, the user emphasized Burt will be remembered with fondness even after his passing. The user’s message to Burt read, “RIP Pauly! An amazing actor. You will be missed, Burt!”
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Burt was a multifaceted personality who did not just excel on the big screen. He was also a professional boxer who never lost a fight. So, to honor the true talent of Burt Young, fans, celebrities, and fellow co-star/close friend Sylvester Stallone came together to pay tributes. Even though the legendary actor is not among us anymore, his legacy would live on through his movies.
Watch This Story: Does Sylvester Stallone Have the Ownership Rights to ‘Rocky’ & ‘Creed’ Franchise?
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