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Actor Carl Weathers, best known as Apollo Creed in the first four Rocky films, died on Thursday at the age of 76. His manager confirmed this.
Saturday, February 3, 2024 at 10:26 AM
In addition to starring as Sylvester Stallone in the Rocky series, the American actor is also known for roles in films such as Predator (1987) and Happy Gilmore (1996) and series such as The Mandalorian (2019-…). He was nominated for an Emmy for the latter role, as the character Greef Karga. In total, he appeared in more than 75 films and shows.
Weathers was born in New Orleans on January 14, 1948 and, in addition to being an actor, was also a gifted athlete, who did boxing, American football wrestling and gymnastics, among other things. While training as a young football player, Weathers also earned a degree in theater arts from San Francisco State University. He played eight more games in the NFL, the top division in American football, before turning full time to acting in 1974.
Weathers died yesterday “strangely in his sleep,” according to a family statement. He is survived by his ex-wife Mary Ann and their two sons. “Carl was an extraordinary person and lived an extraordinary life,” his family said in a statement. “With his contributions to film, television, the arts and sports, he has left an indelible mark and is recognized by generations worldwide.”