Paul D'Amato, best known for his role as Tim 'Dr. Hook' McCracken in the iconic hockey comedy 'Slap Shot,' passed away at the age of 76 after a courageous four-year battle with progressive supranuclear palsy, a rare brain disease. The sad news was confirmed by his 'Slap Shot' co-star, Steve Carlson.
Aside from his memorable portrayal in 'Slap Shot,' D'Amato had a diverse acting career. He appeared in acclaimed films such as 'The Deer Hunter,' 'Heaven's Gate,' 'Suspect,' 'F/X,' and 'Six Ways to Sunday.' Notably, his character in 'Slap Shot' is said to have inspired the look of Wolverine in Marvel Comics's 'X-Men,' as noted by John Lindley Byrne.
