In Memoriam : Carl Weathers, iconic actor, dies at 76

Carl Weathers, the iconic actor best known as Apollo Creed in the “Rocky” movie series, has died.

He was 76.

Details on Carl Weathers

According to his family, Weathers died peacefully in his sleep Thursday.

“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers,” according to the family statement.

“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,” his family said.

“He was a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend.”

Acting career

Weathers got his big acting break in 1976, when he landed the role of heavyweight boxing champion Apollo Creed in “Rocky,” according to his bio on IMDb.

The New Orleans-born actor played this role in three other “Rocky” movies.

Weathers also starred in 1987’s “Predator,” starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, in Adam Sandler’s “Happy Gilmore” in 1996 and on the small screen in “The Mandalorian.”

He also was the voice for Combat Carl in “Toy Story 4” and other shorts in the Disney-Pixar franchise.

He dabbed into comedy, playing himself in the sitcom “Arrested Development.” Other TV acting credits include “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” “Magnum P.I.” and “Chicago P.D.”

Weathers attended San Diego State University where he studied theater and played football.

He then played professionally for the Oakland Raiders until he retired in 1974 to seriously pursue acting, according to his bio.

He was nominated for an Emmy in 2021 for Outstanding Guest Actor for the re-occurring role as Greef Karga in “The Mandalorian.”