Which actor played Paulie Pennino in the Rocky series?

Burt Young played Paulie Pennino in the Rocky series.

Paulie is Rocky Balboa’s best friend, brother-in-law, and Adrian’s older brother. He works at a meat-packing plant in Philadelphia and becomes part of Rocky’s personal circle long before Rocky becomes a world-famous champion. Paulie’s rough personality and explosive temper contrast with Rocky’s quieter determination.

Young originated the role in Rocky (1976) and returned in the subsequent films, including Rocky II, Rocky III, Rocky IV, Rocky V, and Rocky Balboa. His performance in the first movie earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. The role became Young’s signature part, although he also appeared in films such as Chinatown and Once Upon a Time in America.

John C. Reilly, Danny Aiello, and James Caan are sometimes associated with tough, working-class or Italian-American film characters, but none played Paulie. Burt Young’s birth name was Gerald Tommaso DeLouise, and his real-life boxing experience helped inform the physical credibility of his performances.