Actor Tony Burton, who starred in all seven ‘Rocky’ films has died, at the age of 78.
He passed away on Thursday (25 February) in California, his sister Loretta Kelley has confirmed to regional publication Michigan Live.
Tony with Sylvester Stallone
Tony played trainer Duke Evans in the first six films, and was featured in a photograph on the wall in the latest movie, ‘Creed’.
He was also an accomplished boxer, and won Flint Golden Gloves titles in the 1950s, before embarking on a brief professional boxing career.
His co-star Carl Weathers, who played Apollo, lead tributes online, tweeting: “Sad news. RIP Tony Burton. His intensity and talent helped make the Rocky movies successful. #BePeace.”
Sadly, due to ill health and hospital stays, Tony was unable to see the latest film, his sister Loretta has revealed.
“There's a scene in the restaurant of that movie [Creed] where his picture is on the wall," she told Michigan Live. "We didn't talk about [Rocky’ a lot. I mean we were excited, but other people were more excited.
“Whenever he would come home [to Flint] other people would just come over."
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