History of Burt Young in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: October 29, 2024

"Burt Young, born Gerald Tommaso DeLouise, was an American actor best known for his role as Paulie Pennino, the brother-in-law and best friend of Rocky Balboa, in the "Rocky" film series. His compelling performance in the first "Rocky" movie earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor."

April 30, 1940: Birth of Burt Young

On April 30, 1940, Gerald Tommaso DeLouise, who would become known as Burt Young, was born.

1957: Military Service Begins

Burt Young began his service in the United States Marine Corps in 1957.

1959: Military Service Ends

In 1959, Burt Young completed his tour of duty in the United States Marine Corps, where he had participated in boxing.

1974: Passing of Burt Young's Wife

Burt Young's wife, Gloria, died in 1974.

1974: Film Appearances

In 1974, Burt Young appeared in two notable films: "Chinatown" and "The Gambler".

1975: Film Appearance

Burt Young appeared in the film "The Killer Elite" in 1975.

1976: Breakthrough Role in "Rocky"

Burt Young's portrayal of Paulie in the 1976 film "Rocky" earned him critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

1978: Film Appearances

Burt Young had roles in two films in 1978: "Convoy" and "Uncle Joe Shannon".

1984: Film Appearances

Burt Young appeared in two films released in 1984: "Once Upon a Time in America" and "The Pope of Greenwich Village".

1984: New York City Marathon

Burt Young participated in the New York City Marathon in 1984.

1985: Film Appearance

Burt Young starred in the film "A Summer to Remember" in 1985.

1986: Film Appearance

Burt Young was featured in the film "Back to School" in 1986.

1987: Television Role

Burt Young landed a role in the television series "Roomies" in 1987, playing a retired drill instructor who decides to attend college.

1990: Film Appearance

In 1990, Burt Young appeared in the film "Last Exit to Brooklyn".

1999: Film Appearance

Burt Young had a role in the film "Mickey Blue Eyes" in 1999.

2005: Film Appearance

Burt Young acted in the film "Transamerica" in 2005.

2011: Film Appearance

Burt Young appeared in the film "Win Win" in 2011.

2012: Paulie Pennino's Death (Fictional)

In the narrative of the "Rocky" film series, Burt Young's character, Paulie Pennino, passed away in 2012.

2015: Absence from "Creed"

Burt Young did not reprise his role as Paulie in the 2015 film "Creed", as the character was written as deceased.

February 19, 2017: Stage Performance

Burt Young returned to the stage on February 19, 2017, for his role as an aging mob boss in the play "The Last Vig" at The Zephyr Theatre in Los Angeles.