Carl Weathers, who played Apollo Creed in the “Rocky” films and appeared in “Predator,” “Happy Gilmore” and TV’s “Arrested Development,” has died, multiple outlets reported.
Weathers died in his sleep Thursday at age 76, his family said in a statement, according to People.
Carl Weathers, who starred as Apollo Creed in the first four ‘Rocky’ films and appeared in ‘Predator,’ ‘The Mandalorian,’ ‘Happy Gilmore’ and dozens of other films and TV shows, died Tuesday, his family announced. He was 76 https://t.co/WwVj3uHLnO pic.twitter.com/5giXxQqka8
— Deadline Hollywood (@DEADLINE) February 2, 2024
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers,” his family said in a statement, the outlet reported. “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 made appearances in more than 75 films and television shows throughout his 50-year acting career, according to Deadline.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – OCTOBER 23: Actor and former Oakland Raiders player Carl Weathers stands on the Las Vegas Raiders sideline before the team’s game against the Houston Texans at Allegiant Stadium on October 23, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
BEVERLY HILLS, CA – JANUARY 08: In this handout photo provided by NBCUniversal, Sylvester Stallone (L) and Carl Weathers, who co-starred in the 1977 Golden Globe Award-winning film “Rocky”, present the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture. (Photo by Paul Drinkwater/NBCUniversal via Getty Images)
The famous actor is best known for playing Apollo Creed in “Rocky,” a role he reprised in “Rocky II,” “Rocky III” and “Rocky IV.” The character was the heavyweight champion who gave journeyman Philadelphia boxer Rocky Balboa, played by Sylvester Stallone, a shot at title in the 1976 film, according to the outlet.
Weathers is also known for his role in the 1987 film “Predator,” which also starred Arnold Schwarzenegger. He appeared in other films including “Action Jackson,” “Happy Gilmore” and “Toy Story 4,” the outlet reported. (RELATED: Sylvester Stallone Speaks About The Devastating Death Of His Son, Sage)
Weathers appeared in nine episodes of Disney’s “The Mandalorian” across its three seasons as Greef Karga, the leader of the Bounty Hunters Guild. The famous actor also directed two episodes of the series, according to the outlet.
Actors Christine Kludjian and Carl Weathers arrive at the 74th annual Golden Globe Awards, January 8, 2017, at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo: VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty Images)
ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 23: (L-R) Carl Weathers and Giancarlo Esposito of ‘The Mandalorian’ took part today in the Disney+ Showcase at Disney’s D23 EXPO 2019 in Anaheim, Calif. ‘The Mandalorian’ will stream exclusively on Disney+, which launches November 12. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)
He started his acting career in the early 1970s, guest starring in television shows including “Good Times,” “Kung Fu,” “S.W.A.T.,” “The Six Million Dollar Man” and “Cannon.”
Weathers is survived by ex-wife Mary Ann and their two sons, Variety noted.