Sylvester Stallone mourns the death of Oscar-nominated 'Rocky' costar Burt Young, who played Paulie in the movies
- "Rocky" star Burt Young has died aged 83, his daughter confirmed to The New York Times.
- Young was best known for playing Rocky Balboa's pal Paulie Pennino in six "Rocky" movies.
Sylvester Stallone has paid tribute to his "Rocky" costar Burt Young, who has died aged 83.
Young's daughter, Anne Morea Steingieser, confirmed to The New York Times on Wednesday that the actor died on October 8 in Los Angeles.
Young is best known for his role as Paulie Pennino, the titular boxer's best friend in the "Rocky" franchise. Young's performance in the first movie, which was released in 1976, landed him an Oscar nomination for best supporting actor.
Stallone, who played Rocky Balboa in the franchise, paid tribute to his former costar on Instagram.
"To my Dear Friend, BURT YOUNG, you were an incredible man's and artist, I and the World will miss you very much...RIP," Stallone captioned a photo of the two actors on Wednesday night.
Carl Weathers, who costarred in "Rocky," tweeted on Wednesday: "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."
Diane Franklin, who appeared alongside Young in 1982's "Amityville II: The Possession," also paid tribute to the late star.
"It is with great sadness I share the news of actor, Burt Young passing," the actor tweeted. "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."
Young had a prolific movie and TV career for almost 50 years.
He was known for his roles in "Chinatown" and "Once Upon a Time in America," as well as "Rocky."