Sylvester Stallone wrote a heartfelt tribute to his “friend” and former Rocky co-star, Burt Young, on Instagram on Wednesday following his death at the age of 83.
The Rambo star, 77 – who starred alongside the late actor in a total of six films in the Rocky franchise – opened up about how he would ‘miss’ Young upon hearing the news of his death, which took place on October 8 in Los Angeles .
The Oscar-nominated star’s death was confirmed to the New York Times by his daughter, Anne Morea Steingieser. However, the exact cause of his death is yet to be revealed.
Stallone uploaded a black and white photo of both himself and Burt on the set of the classic film in 1976.
In the caption, he wrote, “To my dear friend, BURT YOUNG, you were an incredible man and artist, I and the world will miss you dearly…RIP.”
Heartfelt Tribute: Sylvester Stallone, 77, wrote a heartfelt tribute to his “friend” and former Rocky co-star, Burt Young, on Instagram on Wednesday following his death at the age of 83; the two seen in 1976 on the set of Rocky
Sad loss: In the caption he wrote: ‘To my dear friend, BURT YOUNG, you were an incredible man and artist, I and the world will miss you dearly…RIP’
Will be missed: The Rambo star shared how he would ‘miss’ Young upon hearing the news of his death, which occurred on October 8; seen in 2021
Other social media users also expressed their condolences in the comments section of Sylvester’s post, typing, “Sorry to hear this. A truly exceptional actor!! #RIP #Paulie.”
Another fan wrote: ‘Rest in peace Pauly. May his memory be forever,” and someone added, “Rest in peace, Burt Young… He was a great man, this is so sad….”
Burt starred in several projects, but rose to fame playing the character Paulie Pennino, brother of Adrian (played by Talia Shire), in six of the Rocky films.
For his performance in Rocky (1976), Young received a nomination for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. The award ultimately went to Jason Robards for his role in All The President’s Men.
While you’re talking to Theater mania To promote his role in the 2017 stage production of The Last Vig, Burt opened up about landing his iconic role in the Rocky franchise.
‘Sylvester is coming to me. He introduces himself. “You have to do this part.” “I said, ‘I’m going to do it,’ and he lit up like a pumpkin,” he recalled.
The actor continued, “We have been very close ever since. He’s a nice guy, Sylvester. Very intelligent, very fast.’
Regarding the fact that he is still working after decades in the industry, he commented on his age and humorously said, “All I have to do is look in the mirror. My name is Young, Burt Young. I am forever young.’
Confirmed: The Oscar-nominated star’s death was confirmed by his daughter, Anne Morea Steingieser, to the New York Times; seen in 2019 in Los Angeles
Saying goodbye: Other social media users also expressed their condolences in the comments section of Sylvester’s post, typing, “I’m sorry to hear this. A truly exceptional actor!! #RIP #Paulie’; seen on the set of Rocky V
In 2016, Stallone notably shared a special message to Young as he celebrated the actor’s Lifetime Achievement Award at the Long Beach International Film Festival – which was shared with Burt’s Facebook page.
“I was fortunate to meet Burt Young in 1975 because this man is an anomaly, incredibly strong, courageous, worldly, intelligent, artistic and insightful. I think that would certify him as a Renaissance man,” the First Blood actor said.
Regarding Burt’s portrayal of Paulie, Sylvester added, “He brought so much passion to the character…I thought he should have won an Oscar.” It was amazing.’
He later added, “I just wanted to be the guy who was lucky enough to capture the essence of Burt Young on film. And I think we did that for years.”
The couple got the chance to reunite in 2021 when they attended the special screening of Rocky IV: Rocky Vs. Drago The ultimate director’s cut.
Young had a long and successful career in Hollywood, appearing in more than 160 film and television projects. Before jumping in front of the camera, Burt served primarily in the United States Marine Corps from 1957 to 1959.
One of his first roles was in 1969 when he starred in the television series The Doctors, where he played an uncredited role as a bartender, according to Burt’s official role. IMDB page.
He is also known for his work on films such as Chinatown (1974) – starring Jack Nicholson and Faye Dunaway – and Once Upon A Time In America (1984).
Oscar Nominee: For his performance in Rocky (1976), Young received a nomination for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor
Other projects: He is also known for his work on films such as Chinatown (1974) – starring Jack Nicholson and Faye Dunaway – and Once Upon A Time In America (1984); seen in 2021
During his time in the Marine Corps, he specifically took up boxing and later had the opportunity to train under manager and boxing coach Cus D’Amato, per Deadline.
His first credited role was in the 1970 film titled Carnival Of Blood, in which he tackled the character of Gimpy. Burt also appeared in numerous TV shows, such as M*A*S*H, Law & Order, and Miami Vice.
During his career, Young had the opportunity to step away from the camera and enjoy stage productions.
Notably, he wrote two plays, such as SOS, and a historical novel titled Endings. He was also a painter and some of his own work was briefly seen in the 2006 film Rocky Balboa.
