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LOS ANGELES – US actor Carl Weathers, best known for his role as Apollo Creed in the Rocky film series, has passed away at the age of 76, his family announced on Friday. Weathers, whose portrayal of the boxer Creed opposite Sylvester Stallone garnered acclaim, also earned an Emmy nomination for his role in the popular Star Wars spin-off series, The Mandalorian. The cause of his death was not disclosed, but his family stated that he passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday.
Weathers began his career in the NFL before transitioning to acting, amassing over 75 appearances in movies and television throughout his five-decade-long career. In recent years, he captured the hearts of younger audiences with his role as Greef Karga in the Disney+ hit series The Mandalorian. He also delighted fans by lending his voice to the character Combat Carl in 2019’s Toy Story 4.
However, it was his portrayal of Apollo Creed in the 1976 film Rocky that sealed Weathers’ place in Hollywood history. The movie, which depicted the gripping world of championship boxing, earned critical acclaim, including a Best Picture Oscar. Weathers reprised his role as Creed in subsequent Rocky sequels and shared memorable on-screen moments with Stallone, including a final bout in which his character met a tragic end.
Stallone expressed heartfelt appreciation for his late co-star, stating, When he walked into that room and I saw him for the first time, I saw greatness. I never could have accomplished what we did with ‘Rocky’ without him. Arnold Schwarzenegger, Weathers’ co-star in Predator, also paid tribute, calling him an extraordinary athlete, a fantastic actor, and a great person.
The news of Weathers’ passing has saddened the entertainment industry and fans worldwide. Jesse Ventura, an actor and former Minnesota governor who appeared alongside Weathers in Predator, described him as a phenomenal talent, a true professional, and a dear friend. Adam Sandler, who shared fond memories of working with Weathers, also mourned the loss, emphasizing his role as a great actor and athlete.
Throughout his illustrious career, Weathers left an indelible mark on the film and television industry. His talent, presence, and versatility will be remembered by generations of fans, and his contributions to his craft will continue to be celebrated.
As the news of Carl Weathers’ untimely passing spreads, fans and colleagues alike reflect on his extraordinary life and mourn the loss of a true legend.
