Former Professional Hockey Player And ‘Slap Shot’ Actor Guido Tenesi Dies At 71, Leaving His Wife Leslie Behind

Guido Rocco Tenesi, a rugged former professional hockey defenseman best known for his role as “Billy Charlebois” in the 1977 cult classic Slap Shot, has passed away at the age of 71.

The news of Tenesi’s death was confirmed by the Hershey Bears, who wrote:

A cause of death has not been released.

Guido Tenesi Enjoyed A Great Career On The Ice

Born on July 5, 1953, the Pittsburgh Penguins drafted Tenesi in the fifth round of the 1973 NHL Draft, and by the Toronto Toros in the WHA Draft the same year.

Though he never suited up in the NHL, he had a gritty and well-respected career across multiple leagues, including the AHL, IHL, CHL, and NAHL.

He was an instrumental player for the Johnstown Jets, helping the team clinch the 1975 North American Hockey League Championship.

In 1979, he earned the Governor’s Trophy as the IHL’s best defenseman.

His final playing years took him to Italy’s Serie A, where he represented Italy in the 1982 IIHF World Championship, scoring a pivotal goal in a 7-5 upset win over Team USA.

Guido Tenesi Became Famous After Slap Shot

It was Tenesi’s time with the Jets that led to his big-screen debut.

The movie Slap Shot, starring Paul Newman, was based on the real-life antics of the Jets during their barnstorming road trips.

Fellow Jet Ned Dowd served as the real-life inspiration for many scenes and helped his sister, screenwriter Nancy Dowd, develop the story.

Tenesi portrayed the mirror-obsessed, fashion-show-loving defenseman Billy Charlebois.

While he didn’t have a speaking line in the film, his presence was unforgettable, both for fans of the film and for his castmates.

Steve Carlson, one of the iconic Hanson Brothers, wrote,

Guido Tenesi’s Wife, Leslie, Was His Supportive Partner

After retiring in 1987, Tenesi settled in Toronto with his supportive wife, where he found a quiet, fulfilling life as a swimming pool technician.

Despite his brief foray into Hollywood, Tenesi never chased fame.

His former teammates and friends describe him as a humble man with a strong work ethic, a good sense of humor, and a deep love for his community.

He is survived by his wife, Leslie Denis Tenesi, a devout woman originally from Johnstown, Pennsylvania, who now resides in Vaughan, Ontario.

A friend shared:

Guido Tenesi Had Substantial Net Worth

Guido Tenesi amassed massive wealth throughout his diverse career, which spanned hockey, entertainment, and business.

His primary source of income was his seven-season professional hockey career, spanning from 1973 to 1980, which included stints with teams such as the Hershey Bears and Johnstown Jets.

Then came his memorable role as Billy Charlebois in the cult classic film “Slap Shot.”

After retiring, Tenesi found success as a swimming pool service technician in Toronto and built an estimated net worth of approximately $3-5 million.