Rocky star Carl Weathers, who played Apollo Creed in the first four parts of the Rocky movies, passed away on Thursday at 76, as announced by his family. He is also known for his roles in Predator, The Mandalorian, Happy Gilmore, Action Jackson, Arrested Development, and many more films and TV shows.
Carl Weathers’ family verified the sad news of his death. They shared in a statement that he “died peacefully in his sleep.” His passing deeply saddened fans of the Rocky movies because the 76-year-old actor was best known for playing Apollo Creed. After learning about the Carl Weathers’ passing, Sylvester Stallone, who acted alongside him in the Rocky films, shared a heartfelt tribute to his co-star and close friend. Many other celebrities from Hollywood are sad about the demise of the 76-year-old actor.
As a well-known actor and filmmaker, Carl Weathers significantly impacted the entertainment world. With a career spanning several decades, he earned a special place in the hearts of many fans.
Rocky Star Carl Weathers Passes Away At 76, Confirmed By Family
The family of American actor Carl Weathers has announced that he passed away peacefully at 76 in his sleep. Weathers was a famous actor and former football player. He played linebacker for the Oakland Raiders and later became a movie star. One of his most well-known roles was as Apollo Creed, the rival of Sylvester Stallone’s character in the Hollywood superhit Rocky movies.
The family shared in the statement, “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers…He died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, February 1st, 2024.”
His family added, “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.”
The statement didn’t say why or where he passed away. Rocky star Carl Weathers had a long and diverse acting career that went beyond boxing. He showed his talent in around 80 different movies and TV shows.
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Actor Sylvester Stallone, Pedro Pascal, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Others Pay Tribute to Carl Weathers
The world of movies and showbiz is surprised and saddened by Rocky star Carl Weathers’ unexpected death. Many celebrities went on social media to share their deep and sincere tributes to their dear friend and fellow actor. Adam Sandler, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Pedro Pascal, Jon Favreau, and many other famous folks from Hollywood are feeling devasted by the 76-year-old actor’s passing.
On Saturday, Sylvester Stallone, Carl Weathers’ co-star, shared a video on Instagram to express his sadness. He wrote a message for the post: “We lost a legend yesterday. My life was forever changed for the better the day I met Carl Weathers. Rest in power and keep punching.”
Arnold Schwarzenegger, who once acted alongside Carl Weathers and is known for being California’s former governor and a superhero action star, had some good words about Weathers on X (formerly known as Twitter), “Carl Weathers will always be a legend. An extraordinary athlete, a fantastic actor, and a great person. We couldn’t have made Predator without him. And we certainly wouldn’t have had such a wonderful time making it.”
Adam Sandler honored the late actor on social media, writing, “A true great man. Great dad. Great actor. Great athlete. What a guy!! Everyone loved him. Love to his entire family, and Carl will always be known as a true legend.”
Born in 1948 in New Orleans, Rocky star Carl Weathers started his journey by playing football at San Diego State University. He also studied acting in the theater there. Later, in 1970, he joined the Oakland Raiders football team. According to reports, throughout his Hollywood career, which spans over 50 years, Weathers acted in more than 75 movies and television programs.
Rocky star Carl Weathers was nominated for an Emmy in 2021 for his performance in The Mandalorian. He also directed two episodes of the Star Wars series and worked on episodes of Law & Order and Chicago Med.
Source: BBC, Sylvester Stallone/Instagram
RIP Champ.. this has been one hell of round called life