Paul D'Amato, the actor who inspired the comic book character Wolverine and starred in the wedding scene in “The Deer Hunter,” has died at the age of 76.
He is best known for co-starring Robert De Niro in the 1978 Vietnam blockbuster “The Deer Hunter,” in which he played a weary, green Vietnam veteran, but also in the police TV drama “Law & Order.” But I played a variety of roles. His family announced that he passed away on Monday (February 24, 19) after a four-year battle with a rare brain disease.
His fiancée, Marina Le, told The Hollywood Reporter that he was “the nicest, kindest man” who fought the disease “very hard.”
Steve Carlson, who co-starred with Paul in the 1977 ice hockey comedy-drama Slapshot, also confirmed the news of Paul's death in a post on X, writing: “Rest in peace Paul D'Amato.” “I would like to express my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the actors.”
The late actor's portrayal of Dr. Hook in the film Slap Shot, starring Paul Newman, was the inspiration for the X-Men comic character Wolverine.
Cartoonist John Byrne said of the star: He had crazy eyes. And that's what Wolverine needs. ”
In his later years, Paul worked as a boot fitter at a ski shop in Vermont.
He is survived by his sister Andrea and girlfriend Marina Le.
Born in Worcester and later raised in Spencer, Massachusetts, he began working as a stagehand around the age of 14, which inspired him to become an actor.
He was an athlete and actor, appearing in theater productions and on the ice hockey team while attending Emerson College.
Paul also appeared in a series of charity golf tournaments and sports gatherings, including the Enfield Tournament, where he played for about 10 years and raised money for scholarships.