AdvertisementJohn Avildsen, Oscar-Winning Director Of 'Rocky' And 'Karate Kid,' Dies At 81June 17, 2017Colin DwyerfacebookEmailJohn Avildsen shows off the best director Oscar he won in 1977 for Rocky. Avildsen, who also directed The Karate Kid, died Friday from pancreatic cancer at age 81 in Los Angeles. (AP)
