Paul D’Amato, renowned for his portrayal of Tim “Dr. Hook” McCracken in the classic hockey comedy Slap Shot, has passed away. He died at the age of 76 in East Brookfield, Mass, after fighting progressive supranuclear palsy, a rare brain disease, Variety reports.
Slap Shot co-star Steve Carlson paid tribute to Paul D’Amato on X (formerly Twitter). “RIP Paul D’Amato,” he wrote. “Sending heart-felt condolences to Family and fellow friends, actors.”
D’Amato has an impressive list of credits, including the award-winning The Deer Hunter, Heaven’s Gate, Suspect alongside Cher and Dennis Quaid, and F/X.
However, D’Amato’s impact on pop culture doesn’t stop there. John Byrne, the writer and artist behind Marvel Comics’s X-Men in the 70s, reportedly drew inspiration for Wolverine’s appearance from D’Amato in Slap Shot.
Paul D’Amato Parlayed His Acting and Athletic Abilities Into Landing His ‘Slap Shot’ Role
D’Amato was born in Worcester, Massachusetts, and grew up in Spencer. His journey into acting started at the young age of about 14 while working as a stagehand, igniting his passion for the craft. Balancing both athletic pursuits and his love for acting, he showcased his talent in theater productions and as a member of the ice hockey team during his time at Emerson College.
His talents in both acting and athletics proved fruitful. In 1976, Paul D’Amato secured the part of Tim “Dr. Hook” McCracken in the beloved hockey film Slap Shot, alongside Paul Newman. Released in February 1977, the movie quickly garnered a dedicated fan base.
D’Amato portrayed the main antagonist, the captain of the Syracuse Bulldogs in the fictional Federal Hockey League. His character faces the Charlestown Chiefs, led by Reggie Dunlop played by Newman. Following his success in Slap Shot, D’Amato took on another hockey role in the TV movie The Deadliest, alongside Michael Moriarty and Meryl Streep.
D’Amato participated in numerous charity golf tournaments and sports events, notably the Enfield tournament where he competed for a decade, contributing to scholarship funds. He actively supported the Springfield Hockey Heritage Society and frequently attended the Hartford Whalers Alumni Weekend at Dunkin’ Donuts Park.
During charity events, he proudly presented a Syracuse Bulldogs hockey jersey bearing the number 9 and the name McCracken. D’Amato would then personally sign it for the highest bidder, frequently auctioning it off to raise substantial funds for charitable causes.
He is survived by his sister, Andrea, and his girlfriend, Marina Re.