Tony Burton died peacefully last night in his California home.
The 78-yr-old is best remembered for his iconic role as Tony “Duke” Evers in the Rocky Balboa franchise – a role which he played in all 6 Rocky movies and is heavily referenced by his “son” in Stallone’s latest rendition, Creed.
Burton had a colourful life before Rocky including an accomplished boxing career and football career before he ended up in prison for 3 years over robbery.
There he learned the craft of acting in theatre class. He had small roles when he got released before landing the Rocky franchise.
Initially he trained Apollo Creed before Rocky. The actor who played Apollo, Carl Weathers said:
“With great sadness, Tony has passed on. Be at peace.”
Burton was a daily attendee of Church and his wife and family say their faith is helping them at this sad and difficult time.
RIP