Slap Shot Actor and Former Hockey Player Guido Tenesi Dies at 71

June 20, 2025 — Guido Tenesi, best known for his role as Billy Charlebois in the classic 1977 hockey film Slap Shot, has passed away at the age of 71. The news was shared on Thursday by the Hershey Bears, where Tenesi once played professional hockey.

“Our hearts are with his family, friends, and teammates,” the American Hockey League team posted in tribute.

Guido Tenesi Cause of Death

A cause of death has not been made public.

From Ice Rinks to the Big Screen

Before acting, Tenesi had a solid hockey career. He was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 1973 and played defense for their minor league team in Hershey for two seasons. Over the next several years, he played in various leagues across North America.

Tenesi’s time with the Johnstown Jets in the 1974-75 season became life-changing. He played alongside Ned Dowd, whose sister Nancy Dowd was writing Slap Shot. Many scenes in the movie were inspired by real moments from the team’s road trips.

“It was neat being in a movie,” Tenesi once said in an interview. “How they made it, is what was so interesting to me.”

Remembering a Hockey Legend

In the cult favorite film Slap Shot, Tenesi played Billy Charlebois, a handsome, flashy player on the Charlestown Chiefs. The film starred Paul Newman as Reggie Dunlop, and became a fan favorite for its raw, funny, and gritty portrayal of minor league hockey.

Tenesi’s performance in the film was his only acting role. After retiring from hockey in 1987, he lived a quiet life working as a swimming pool technician in Toronto.

Tributes From Teammates and Fans

Steve Carlson, who played one of the Hanson brothers in the movie, paid tribute online: “RIP Guido Tenesi — good guy gone too soon. He always had honor and class. Prayers for his family and teammates.”

Jeff Carlson, another Slap Shot co-star, also shared his grief on Facebook: “Very sad to say we lost another brother. Guido was a great hockey player but an even better person. We’ll never forget you.”

A Career to Remember

Guido Tenesi’s on-ice accomplishments include:

• 1974 Calder Cup win with Hershey Bears

• 1975 Lockhart Cup with Johnstown Jets

• 1979 Governor’s Trophy in the IHL (top defenseman)

Though he only appeared in one film, Tenesi left a lasting mark in both sports and cinema.

“Rest easy, #5 — you’re forever a Chief,” said Steve Carlson in his tribute.