Tony Burton Dead - 'Rocky' Actor Dies at 78

Tony Burton, best known for his work in the first six Rocky movies, has died at the age of 78.

The actor passed away on Thursday afternoon (February 25) in California, his younger sister Loretta “Peaches” Kelley told MLive.com.

Tony was one of just four actors who appeared in all of the first six movies of the hit franchise. He played the role of Duke, the trainer of Apollo Creed.

Loretta said that Tony never received an official diagnosis, though he was in and out of the hospital throughout the past year. Due to his health issues, he wasn’t able to see the movie Creed before he passed away.

We send our thoughts and condolences to Tony‘s loved ones during this difficult time.