Lou Fillipo was an American actor who is best known for his roles in Rocky IV, Rocky II, and Rocky. He was born on December 1, 1925, in Los Angeles, California, and passed away on November 2, 2009, in Downey, California, due to complications from a stroke.
Personal and Family Life
Lou Fillipo was married to Pat Filippo until her death in 2007. Together, they had two daughters, Patti Filippo Petruzelli and Debbye Filippo Shepard. He is also survived by two grandsons and three great-grandchildren.
Career
Lou Fillipo was not only an actor but also a well-respected boxing referee. He officiated in 85 championship fights, including notable matches like the Sugar Ray Leonard versus Marvelous Marvin Hagler fight in 1987. Fillipo had an impressive boxing career, with over 250 amateur fights and a professional record of 28 wins, 9 losses, and 3 draws before retiring in 1957. He was later inducted into the World Boxing Hall of Fame and served as its president from 1993.
Death and Legacy
Lou Fillipo died on November 2, 2009, at the age of 83. His contributions to both boxing and film left a lasting impression on fans and colleagues alike. His family continues to remember him fondly, and his legacy in the boxing community endures through the accolades he received throughout his career.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Rocky | 1976-11-20 | Championship Fight Announcer |
| Rocky II | 1979-06-15 | Referee (uncredited) |
| Rocky III | 1982-05-28 | Rematch Referee |
| Rocky IV | 1985-11-21 | Las Vegas Referee |
| Rocky V | 1990-11-16 | Referee |
| Knockout | 2000-02-04 | Main Fight Referee |
| The A-Team | 1983-01-23 | Referee |
| Fantasy Island | 1978-01-28 | Referee |
| Moonlighting | 1985-03-03 | Referee |