Actor Carl Weathers, best known for appearing in classic films including “Rocky” and “Predator,” has died at the age of 76.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers,” his family said in a statement, per Deadline. “He died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, February 1st, 2024. … Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life. Through his contributions to film, television, the arts and sports, he has left an indelible mark and is recognized worldwide and across generations. He was a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend.”
Weathers had a successful Hollywood career spanning five decades, appearing in more than 75 films and TV shows over that time. The actor achieved international stardom while playing Apollo Creed in the “Rocky” franchise. Creed was the heavyweight champion of the world who gave Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) a shot at the title in the first film.
Weathers played the same role in “Rocky II” (1979) and “Rocky III” (1982). His character was killed off in the “Rocky IV” (1985) while facing off in the ring against Russian heavyweight Ivan Drago (Dolph Lundgren).
Movie fans will also recall the actor appearing in the Adam Sandler comedy “Happy Gilmore” as golf coach Derick “Chubbs” Peterson.
Sandler added a tribute to the late actor with an X post.
“A true great man. Great dad. Great actor. Great athlete,” he wrote. “So much fun to be around always. Smart as hell. Loyal as hell. Funny as hell. Loved his sons more than anything. What a guy!! Everyone loved him. My wife and I had the best times with him every time we saw him. Love to his entire family and Carl will always be known as a true legend.”
Recently, Weathers played the character of Greef Karga opposite Pedro Pascal in the Disney+ Star Wars series “The Mandalorian.” His turn on the series earned Weathers a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series.
The outlet noted that Lucasfilm is currently working on a film version of the hit series called “The Mandalorian & Grogu,” but it’s unclear if Weathers was involved.
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Other projects Weathers participated in include playing Colonel Al Dillon in “Predator” (1987) and giving voice to Combat Carl in the “Toy Story” franchise. The actor played Detective Beaudreaux in the television series “Street Justice” (1991–1993) and appeared as a fictionalized version of himself in the comedy series “Arrested Development.”
Weathers was married three times. He and his ex-wife, Mary Ann, have two sons, Jason and Matthew. The actor was also drafted by the NFL in 1970 and signed with the Oakland Raiders after playing college football for at San Diego State University.