LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The news of 'Rocky' star Burt Young's death shocked the world on Wednesday, October 18.
In the movie series, the actor played the iconic character of Paulie; a grumbly, foul-mouthed meatpacker who is the friend and cornerstone for Sylvester Stallone’s Rocky Balboa.
Young's death was confirmed by his daughter Anne Morea Steingieser to the New York Times. He was 83 years old.
Tributes poured in from across the globe, with several people expressing their gratitude for the performances Young delivered on the big screen throughout his storied career.
Burt Young’s career
Young had more than 160 film and television credits to his name.
He reprised his role as Paulie in all six of the original 'Rocky' film series. He was also nominated for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in the first installment of 'Rocky'.
Besides being a celebrated actor, Young also devoted his time to painting and theatre work. His art would go on to be featured in several galleries around the world.
Social media mourns Burt Young
The news of Young’s death sent shockwaves across all social media platforms.
One of his castmates took to X with the heartfelt message: “It is with great sadness I share the news of actor, Burt Young passing. He was 83. For those who don’t know he played my father in “AMITYVILLE II:The Possession.” He was a beautiful, funny, talented man, with a deep soul. He will be deeply missed. #ripburtyoung”
One X user wrote, “The last role I saw him in was on The Sopranos. He dominated it. Just an actor that made any scene better.”
Another said, “#RIPBurtYoung. Farewell to the artist formerly known as Paulie. I loved that face. And may he stay, forever #BurtYoung.”
“Such a lovely man! We crossed paths many times over the years and his tough, but gentle, demeanor was always touching. He always brought up his daughter in such glowing terms, for which I adored him. #RIPBurtYoung,” someone else remembered.
An X user commented, “Dammit, Burt Young has died Will forever be our Paulie, loyal friend to Rocky Balboa #RIPBurtYoung”
“We're losing too many great ones, and now Burt Young is gone at the age of 83; forever Paulie in ROCKY, he worked for Peckinpah and Leone; cut off Eric Roberts' thumb in THE POPE OF GREENWICH VILLAGE, & was Rodney Dangerfield's sidekick in BACK TO SCHOOL. #RIPBurtYoung,” another user lamented.
Social media users also remembered his role in various movies. An X user wrote, “Sneaky best “in it for only like ten minutes” character in The Sopranos was Bobby Baccala Sr. The joy the old man gets in ripping that dart after blasting those two idiots in the kitchen is just the best. #RIPBurtYoung.”
Another X user reminisced, “As a kid I always loved for whatever reason the movie Convoy so I’m a little sad tonight. #RIPBurtYoung.”
Someone else said, “Rest in Peace, Devil Dog #SemperFi #USMC #RIPBurtYoung”
“So sad hearing actor Burt Young has passed away thoughts prayers and my sincere condolences are with his family and friends at this sad time.. #RIPBurtYoung,” another tweet read.
Burt died on October 8, according to his daughter Anne. He is survived by his only daughter and a grandson.
