Actor Carl Weathers, known for his roles in Rocky and Predator, passed away at the age of 76.
On February 1, his agent released a statement on behalf of his family, announcing his peaceful passing in his sleep.
“Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life,” the statement continued. “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.”
Carl Weathers is most recognized for his portrayal of Apollo Creed in the initial four Rocky movies, co-starring with Sylvester Stallone. In the Creed films, which star Michael B Jordan, clips of Weathers’ performance were also incorporated.
Following his successful college football career in the 1960s, Weathers transitioned to acting in blaxploitation films after retiring from professional sports in the early 1970s. His first roles were in Bucktown and Friday Foster.
In 2023, Weathers expressed that he was hooked on performing, saying “I caught the bug.” He found it exhilarating to make an audience laugh and receive applause. Once bitten by the bug, it’s difficult to let go.
In 1976, his breakthrough occurred when he landed a role in the film “Rocky” that was originally meant for boxer Ken Norton. He reportedly secured the role by criticizing Sylvester Stallone’s acting during his audition. In 2015, he stated, “Sometimes, it’s the mistakes that lead to getting the job.”
In 2020, he discussed his experience playing a boxer by stating, “It was difficult to avoid getting hit while filming. At times, we purposely engaged in physicality. I was always worried about accidentally hurting Sly if I threw a punch too hard. There was no need for that, and I believe he felt the same way.”
Afterwards, Weathers appeared in the following three Rocky films and also starred alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 1987 film Predator. He also had the main role in 1988’s Action Jackson.
Schwarzenegger expressed his admiration for Carl Weathers, describing him as a legendary figure. He acknowledged Weathers’ athletic abilities, acting skills, and personality, stating that the movie Predator would not have been possible without him. He also mentioned that working with Weathers was a delightful experience, both on and off set. He considered Weathers a motivating friend who always pushed him to do his best. Schwarzenegger ended by expressing his sadness at the loss of Weathers and sending his condolences to his family.
During the next ten years, he starred alongside Adam Sandler in Happy Gilmore and later had roles in Arrested Development as a coach for actors and the voice of Combat Carl in Toy Story 4.
Sandler recently shared on X about a remarkable individual. He was an exceptional father, actor, and athlete, and his company was always enjoyable. He was intelligent, devoted, and had a great sense of humor. His love for his sons was unmatched. He was beloved by all, and my wife and I cherished every moment spent with him. Sending love to his family, and Carl will forever be remembered as a legendary figure.
He recently played the role of Greef Karga in The Mandalorian, which earned him a nomination for an Emmy award for his outstanding guest performance in a drama series. He also had the opportunity to direct two episodes.
In 2021, he expressed his enjoyment on the show, as it allowed him to fully explore his creativity in ways he had not been able to in previous projects. He described the experience as wonderful and perfectly timed.
Jon Favreau, the creator of the show, expressed his sadness in a statement, stating that he was deeply affected by the loss. He shared that the person was a hero from his childhood and that he was fortunate enough to have met him and even more fortunate to have worked with him. He also highlighted the person’s youthful energy and curiosity, combined with the wisdom gained from a fulfilling life and career. He offered his condolences to the family and fans of the deceased.
Robert Rodriguez, who directed episodes of the show featuring Weathers paid tribute today. “Will miss the great Carl Weathers who I was very fortunate to work with on several occasions,” he wrote. “A very kind and generous person. His performances were always electrifying and he was also a terrific director of both stage and screen.”
He is survived by a pair of sons.
Source: theguardian.com
