Actor-director Carl Weathers, renowned for his iconic portrayal of boxer Apollo Creed in the Rocky film series, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, February 1st, 2024, at the age of 76. The news was confirmed by his family in a heartfelt statement.
The family expressed “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers…Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life. 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, born in New Orleans, Louisiana on January 14, 1948, had a prolific career spanning five decades, with appearances in over 75 films and television shows. Beyond his notable role in the first four Rocky films, he graced the screen in classics such as Predator (1987), Action Jackson (1988), and Toy Story 4 (2019). His versatility shone in both dramatic and comedic roles, showcasing his enduring talent.
In recent years, Weathers captivated audiences with his portrayal of Greef Karga in the Star Wars series, The Mandalorian (2019–2023). In 2021, he earned an Emmy nomination for his performance and also showcased his directorial skills by helming episodes in Seasons 2 and 3.
Sylvester Stallone, Weathers’s co-star in the Rocky series, took to Instagram to share a poignant video in honor of the late actor. “We lost a legend yesterday. My life was forever changed for the better the day I met Carl Weathers. Rest in power and keep punching,” Stallone wrote, acknowledging Weathers’s pivotal role in his life and the success of the Rocky franchise.
Reflecting on their first meeting, Stallone shared, “When he first walked into the room, I saw greatness. But I didn’t realize how great. I never could have accomplished what we did with Rocky without him.” Stallone praised Weathers’s remarkable attributes, including his voice, size, power, athletic ability, heart, and soul.
As a touching tribute, Stallone pointed to a painting capturing their final moment in a boxing ring together, emphasizing the enduring impact of their collaboration. The 77-year-old actor-filmmaker concluded the video by saluting Weathers’s phenomenal depiction of Apollo Creed, cementing his legacy as a cinematic legend. Read More
Carl Weathers’s passing leaves a void in the entertainment industry, but his contributions and impact will be celebrated and remembered for generations to come.
