Renowned US actor Carl Weathers, acclaimed for his iconic role as Apollo Creed in the first four Rocky films, has passed away at 76, peacefully in his sleep, as confirmed by his family. The actor, who transitioned from an NFL linebacker to a multifaceted entertainer, left an indelible mark on film, television, the arts, and sports.
Weathers’ family released a heartfelt statement recognizing him as an “exceptional human being” who lived an extraordinary life. His diverse contributions spanned across action and comedy genres, from his memorable role in Predator alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger to his appearance in Adam Sandler’s Happy Gilmore.
Beyond the big screen, Weathers showcased his talent in popular TV series, such as Arrested Development and a standout performance in all three seasons of The Mandalorian on Disney+. Schwarzenegger, his former co-star, paid tribute on social media, hailing Weathers as a legend, athlete, actor, and great person, emphasizing the pivotal role he played in the success of films like Predator.
Born in 1948 in New Orleans, Weathers initially pursued a football career, playing for the Oakland Raiders after studying theatre acting at San Diego State University. With a career spanning over 50 years, Weathers appeared in more than 75 films and TV shows, receiving a 2021 Emmy nomination for his role in The Mandalorian. Notably, he directed episodes for The Mandalorian, Law & Order, and Chicago Med.
Adam Sandler, a close colleague, expressed his grief on social media, describing Weathers as a “true great man” and a legend in various fields. Giancarlo Esposito, known for Breaking Bad, also mourned Weathers as a dear friend and brother.
Weathers reflected on his career in a 2023 interview, humbly considering himself a “lucky guy.” He acknowledged the trailblazers who inspired him and expressed hope in inspiring others to do good work.
The actor’s filmography included notable titles like Action Jackson, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Eight Crazy Nights, Little Nicky, and contributions to the Toy Story franchise. Weathers’ impact reached beyond the entertainment industry, leaving an enduring legacy as a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend.
In essence, Carl Weathers’ passing marks the end of an era, but his remarkable journey and contributions will forever be etched in the hearts of fans worldwide, spanning generations and diverse realms of entertainment.