Hollywood has lost an iconic figure as Carl Weathers, renowned for his portrayal of Apollo Creed in the early “Rocky” films and his recent role in “The Mandalorian,” passed away at the age of 76, according to his manager Matt Luber, as confirmed to Variety.
Weathers’ extensive career included notable performances in films such as “Predator” (1987) and Adam Sandler’s “Happy Gilmore,” showcasing his versatility in the entertainment industry. He even earned a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series for his compelling work in the “Star Wars” series, “The Mandalorian.”
Apart from his on-screen roles, Weathers lent his voice to characters like Combat Carl in “Toy Story 4” and made memorable appearances in TV shows like “Arrested Development.” His diverse credits also spanned series like “Street Justice,” “Colony,” “The Shield,” “Chicago Justice,” and “Brothers,” as well as films such as “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” “Death Hunt,” and “The Comebacks.”
Weathers’ journey into acting took a unique turn, initially balancing sports, including football, soccer, wrestling, and gymnastics. Born on January 14, 1948, in New Orleans, he played college football at San Diego State University before signing with the Oakland Raiders as a free agent in 1970. Despite his brief NFL stint, his passion for acting prevailed, leading him to roles in blaxploitation films and popular TV series like “Good Times,” “Kung Fu,” “Cannon,” and “Starsky and Hutch.”
The actor’s pivotal role in “Predator,” alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger, marked a significant moment in his career. Weathers also made headlines hosting “Saturday Night Live” in 1988 and later returned for a humorous political spoof, capitalizing on his role as the “Black guy in ‘Predator.'”
Weathers’ relationship with Sylvester Stallone, who portrayed Rocky Balboa, endured its ups and downs. Initially refusing Stallone’s request to use footage from earlier “Rocky” films for the 2006 installment “Rocky Balboa,” Weathers later reconciled, permitting the use of his likeness in the subsequent “Creed” series, where Michael B. Jordan played Apollo Creed’s son.
In his later years, Weathers continued to contribute to the industry, securing smaller roles in TV procedurals and even stepping into the director’s chair for episodes of the Disney+ series “The Mandalorian.” He earned his first Emmy nomination in 2021 for his role as Greef Karga.
Carl Weathers is survived by his ex-wife, Mary Ann, and their two sons, leaving behind a legacy that transcends the worlds of sports and entertainment.
MOST KEY POINTS
Legendary Actor’s Passing:
Carl Weathers, famous for his role as Apollo Creed in the “Rocky” series and recent contributions to “The Mandalorian,” passed away at 76.
Versatile Career:
Weathers showcased versatility in his acting career, starring in iconic films like “Predator” (1987) and Adam Sandler’s “Happy Gilmore.”
Emmy Nomination:
The actor earned a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series for his work in “The Mandalorian,” a testament to his enduring talent.
Voice Acting:
Weathers lent his voice to animated characters, including Combat Carl in “Toy Story 4,” adding another dimension to his entertainment repertoire.
TV Show Appearances:
His diverse credits encompassed TV series such as “Arrested Development,” “Street Justice,” “Colony,” “The Shield,” “Chicago Justice,” and “Brothers.”
Early Sports Career:
Born in New Orleans, Weathers initially pursued sports, playing football at San Diego State University and briefly in the NFL with the Oakland Raiders.
Breakthrough in Acting:
After transitioning from sports to acting, Weathers landed roles in blaxploitation films and popular TV shows like “Good Times,” “Kung Fu,” “Cannon,” and “Starsky and Hutch.”
Iconic “Predator” Role:
Weathers’ role as Colonel Al Dillon in “Predator” alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger marked a significant milestone in his career.
Reconciliation with Stallone:
Despite initial disagreements, Weathers and Sylvester Stallone reconciled after the actor refused the use of earlier “Rocky” footage, allowing his likeness in the subsequent “Creed” series.
Late-Career Achievements:
Weathers continued to make contributions, earning his first Emmy nomination in 2021 for “The Mandalorian” and even stepping into the director’s chair for episodes of the Disney+ series. He is survived by his ex-wife, Mary Ann, and their two sons.