Renowned U.S. actor Carl Weathers, best known for his portrayal of Apollo Creed in the first four Rocky films, has passed away at the age of 76, as confirmed by his family.
Weathers, whose career spanned over 50 years, reportedly "died peacefully in his sleep," leaving behind an enduring legacy in the world of entertainment.
Weathers, initially making a mark as an NFL linebacker, seamlessly transitioned to the silver screen, becoming a fixture in Hollywood.
Beyond his iconic role as Apollo Creed, he showcased his versatility in movies like Predator alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger and Adam Sandler's comedy hit, Happy Gilmore.
Tribute to an exceptional human being and performer
In a poignant statement, Weathers' family described him as an "exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life."
They highlighted his impact on film, television, the arts, and sports, acknowledging his enduring recognition across generations. Weathers was remembered not only as a beloved actor but also as a cherished brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend.
From action to comedy - weathers' diverse career
The actor seamlessly navigated between action and comedy genres, gracing screens in shows like Arrested Development and gaining recent acclaim for his role in all three seasons of The Mandalorian, a Disney+ hit series. Former co-star Arnold Schwarzenegger expressed his admiration, calling Weathers a legend without whom Predator wouldn't have been the same.
Born in 1948 in New Orleans, Weathers initially pursued a career in football at San Diego State University before joining the Oakland Raiders in 1970. Over his five-decade Hollywood career, he amassed over 75 film and TV credits, earning an Emmy nomination in 2021 for The Mandalorian. Weathers also ventured into directing, leaving an indelible mark on series like Star Wars and Law & Order.
Hollywood colleagues paid heartfelt tributes to Weathers, with Adam Sandler praising him as a "true great man" and Giancarlo Esposito expressing his deep sorrow at the loss of a dear friend. Weathers' impact on both the big and small screen, from classics like Action Jackson to modern hits like The Mandalorian, has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
In a 2023 interview, Weathers referred to himself as a "lucky guy" and acknowledged the path paved by those before him. Expressing gratitude for the opportunities to walk in their footsteps, he hoped to inspire others to achieve excellence in their work.
