Guido Tenesi, the former NHL player and beloved star of the iconic hockey film ‘Slap Shot,’ has died at the age of 71, leaving the hockey community and fans of the film in mourning. The passing of the beloved actor and athlete has prompted tributes from fellow actors and hockey franchises, with many remembering his significant contributions to both the sport and the entertainment industry.
Tenesi was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the fifth round of the 1973 NHL amateur draft, marking the beginning of his professional hockey career. He went on to play for the Hershey Bears and other teams, including a two-year stint with the Penguins’ minor-league affiliate in Hershey, Pennsylvania. His time in the American Hockey League and other leagues helped shape his experience, which he later shared in interviews, detailing how the Johnstown Jets’ success during the 1974-75 season played a role in securing his role in ‘Slap Shot.’
The success of ‘Slap Shot’ is closely tied to the real-life experiences of the minor league hockey teams that inspired the film’s plot. The movie’s story follows the struggling Charlestown Chiefs, a fictionalized version of the real-life team that Tenesi played for. Tenesi’s portrayal of Billy Charlebois brought authenticity to the film, which remains a beloved classic. His character’s personality and the team’s journey resonated with audiences, helping to elevate the film’s status as a cultural touchstone of hockey history.
Steve Carlson, another actor from the film, has taken to social media to remember his late co-star, calling him a ‘good guy gone too soon.’ Carlson’s tribute highlights the camaraderie between the actors and the lasting impact Tenesi had on both the film and his hockey career. The Hershey Bears, who once played with Tenesi on their 1974 Calder Cup championship team, also expressed their condolences, calling him a ‘member of our roster’ and mourning his passing.
As the sports world reflects on Tenesi’s life and career, fans and colleagues continue to honor his legacy. His contributions to hockey and film have left a lasting impact, with his character in ‘Slap’ becoming an enduring symbol of the sport’s spirit. Tenesi’s journey from a drafted NHL player to a celebrated film star serves as an example of the intersection between sports and entertainment, and his passing is a reminder of the many lives that have been shaped by the world of hockey, both on and off the ice.