Carl Weathers, known to many as Apollo Creed in the “Rocky” franchise, sadly passed away on Thursday at the age of 76.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers,” his family said in a statement. “He died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, February 1st, 2024. … 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.”
Weathers had a long and diverse acting career starring in the first four “Rocky” films, “Predator,” “Happy Gilmore,” “The Mandalorian,” “Action Jackson” and “Arrested Development,” among many other movies and television shows. He was also a former NFL linebacker having played one season for the Oakland Raiders in 1970.
Frankie Sullivan, guitarist for melodic rock legends Survivor, perhaps best known for their song “Eye Of The Tiger” from “Rocky III,” wrote: “Very sad day for many of us. Very sad.”
Disturbed’s David Draiman paid tribute saying: “Huge fan. Massive loss. RIP Champ. #CarlWeathersRIP”
Jesse Ventura, Weathers’ co-star in “Predator,” wrote: “We lost an icon. Carl Weathers was a phenomenal talent, a true professional, and a dear friend. All my sympathies and love to his family. I loved working with him on Predator and then celebrating that film with him at various conventions in the ensuing years. Thank you, Carl.”
WWE star Austin Creed wrote: “When I started wrestling in 2004 I had no idea what or who I wanted to be. It wasnt long before my favorite character, Apollo Creed, became my inspiration. For the past 20 years I’ve drawn on Carl Weathers for that inspiration and I just wanted to say thank you. Rest well #Rip”
AEW’s Matt Hardy shared: “RIP Carl Weathers – The first movie I watched in a theater? Rocky IV.”
Veteran wrestler Frankie Kazarian also paid tribute: “Damn. Anyone who knows me, and my story, knows how important the Rocky franchise is to me. NO ONE else could have been Apollo Creed. Carl Weathers is larger than life to me. In every role he was cast in. I was inspired & entertained by him my entire life. RIP sir. Godspeed. The Apollo Creed/Ivan Drago fight & its conclusion got a young me majorly invested in this movie.”
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