Tony Burton, who starred as Tony “Duke” Evers in Rocky has passed away at 78, late Thursday evening [February 25], sources confirm.
“@E_Woodyard @TheSlyStallone Sad news,” Rocky co-star Carl Weathers wrote on Twitter. “RIP Tony Burton. His intensity and talent helped make the Rocky movies successful. #BePeace.”
Burton was one of only a select few to appear in the first six installments of the iconic film franchise, playing Apollo Creed’s trainer. Before he got into acting, Burton himself was a professional light heavyweight boxer and football player.
Other films under his belt included The Shining and Stir Crazy.
As reported, Burton spent time in and out of the hospital over the past year, but was never given an official diagnosis.
RIP to the talented Tony Burton.
