'Rocky' & 'Happy Gilmore' Star Carl Weathers Dies At Age 76

Carl Weathers, known as Apollo Creed in the 'Rocky' films and for his roles in 'Happy Gilmore' and 'The Mandalorian' has passed away.

The former professional football player got his acting start in the 1970s appearing in crime dramas before landing his breakout role, Apollo Creed, in 'Rocky'.

He went on to appear in several more movies and television shows.

According to a statement released by his family, “He died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, February 1st, 2024."

On Thursday, the legendary actor died at his home. His family announced the tragic news, saying, “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers."

"[He] 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.”

After hearing the news, many fans of the late actor took to social media to pay their respects. "RIP CARL WEATHERS. Lots of great roles but his exit in PREDATOR is especially memorable," one account pointed out.

Another remembered him for his comedic role in 'Arrested Development', as they said, "RIP to Carl Weathers. His cameo (as himself) in Arrested Development was peak comedy."

The actor had made a name for himself appearing in more than 75 films and TV shows during his 50-year screen career -- but he is best known for playing Apollo Creed in 'Rocky' alongside Sylvester Stallone. He went on to reprise the role in 1979's 'Rocky II '(1979) and 1982’s 'Rocky III.'

The actor, who was previously best known for starring in movies, eventually made the switch to television shows, even appearing in nine episodes of the Disney+ hit 'Star Wars' series 'The Mandalorian', which earned him a nomination for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series.

A few years ago, Weathers opened up to GQ Magazine about his role in the 'Star Wars' series, and what it was like to first see the iconic Baby Yoda. "I didn't shed a tear, but, man, I was... There was something so sweet about that little character," he said.

Adding, "You know, people have told me who have watched The Mandalorian how much they loved the baby. How could you not want to be in scenes with the baby?"

The late actor went on to explain how the transition from movies to television came to be:

"Over the years I think what the industry discovered, and what many actors discovered as well, was that television in its own way expanded their fanbase, expanded their career, gave them an opportunity to reach people that perhaps they would never have reached, because television is right there in front of you. Television is like driving a car as opposed to a Conestoga wagon across the expanse. "

Other notable credits include 'Happy Gilmore', 'Eight Crazy Nights', 'Little Nicky', 'Predator', 'Dangerous Passion' and many more. He also provided his voice to Combat Carl in the Disney-Pixar animated film, 'Toy Story 4'.

Carl Weathers was 76.

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