Burt Young

Burt Young, born Gerald Tommaso DeLouise on April 30, 1940, is an American actor, author, and painter. He rose to fame for his portrayal of Paulie Pennino, Rocky Balboa's brother-in-law and best friend, in the Rocky film series. Young's performance in the first Rocky film earned him a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Throughout his career, he appeared in notable films such as Chinatown, The Gambler, Once Upon a Time in America, and Transamerica. Young, who is of Italian descent, was born and raised in Corona, Queens, New York. He received training from Lee Strasberg at the Actors Studio. Additionally, Young served a tour of duty in the United States Marine Corps.