Legendary Actor Carl Weathers, Known for Rocky Series, Passes Away at 76
Iconic Performer Remembered for Impact on Film, Television, and Sports
Carl Weathers, an actor and director best known for playing boxer Apollo Creed in Sylvester Stallone's Rocky film series, passed away on Thursday at the age of 76, according to a statement released by his family.
"We regret to inform you of Carl Weathers's demise...Carl was an outstanding human being who had an unbelievable life, the family said in a statement. "He passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, February 1st, 2024." He has had an enduring impact on movies, television, the arts, and sports, and he is well-known both internationally and among different generations. The statement went on to say, "He was a cherished partner, friend, parent, and brother.
Weathers starred in movies such as Predator (1987), Action Jackson (1988), The Comebacks (2007), Think Like a Man Too (2014), and Toy Story 4 (2019) in addition to the first four Rocky flicks.
He also appeared in the Star Wars television series The Mandalorian (2019–2023) on a regular basis as Greef Karga. Weathers directed two episodes in Seasons 2 and 3 and was nominated for an Emmy in 2021 for the performance.
Born in New Orleans, Louisiana on January 14, 1948, Weathers has spent the course of his five-decade career appearing in over 75 films and television series.
Sylvester Stallone, who costarred with Weather in the first Rocky movie, posted a video on Instagram on Saturday expressing his condolences for the actor's passing.
"Yesterday, a legend left us. That day I met Carl Weathers, and it permanently transformed my life for the better. In addition to posting the message, Stallone acknowledged the significant influence Weathers had had on his life and career. "Rest in power and keep punching," he said.
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"When he walked into the room, I saw greatness," Stallone recalled thinking of his first encounter with Weathers. But I was unaware of how fantastic. Without him, I never could have done what we did with Rocky.
Stallone went on, "His voice, size, power, athleticism, but most importantly his heart and soul, he was absolutely great."
Stallone continued, saying he would never be able to forget the event and pointing to an artwork that depicts their last moments together in a boxing ring. The 77-year-old actor and director honored Weathers' outstanding portrayal of Apollo Creed as he wrapped up his video statement.
