ACTOR Carl Weathers has died at 76.
Weathers, whose career spanned film and television, action and comedy, is best known for his role as Apollo Creed in the Rocky franchise, as well as his performance in Adam Sandler’s comedy, Happy Gilmore.
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“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers,” his family said in a statement, according to Deadline.
Weathers died “peacefully in his sleep” on Thursday, his family shared.
“Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life,” the statement continued.
“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,” the statement ended.
The late actor landed roles in more than 75 movies and TV shows, including The Mandalorian, Predator, and Arrested Development.
THE FOOTBALL STAR
Before pursuing his acting career, Carl was a football star as a defensive end at San Diego State.
He played as a linebacker for the Oakland Raiders and retired from the sport in 1974, according to Sports Illustrated.
The Force 10 from Navarone star spent about five seasons with Oakland, the B. C. Lions of the Canadian League, and the Detroit Lions, as reported by The Washington Post.
‘A FULL LIFE’
In a 1979 interview with the publication, the Semi-Tough actor opened up about his future and legacy.
“God knows I don’t have it all together, but I’ve learned that not doing what you want to do will limit the success you can have,” Carl admitted.
“I like to think old John Wayne knew that. He had his ups and downs, but there was a full life, a real career. He didn’t have to sign out full of regrets.
“I’d rather die and go to hell right now than live and end up staring in the mirror someday and saying, ‘Were you ever full of . . . ! You blew it, man!” Carl concluded.
HIS LAST MESSAGE
At the end of January, the actor-turned-director held a Q&A session with fans on X, formerly known as Twitter.
In his last tweet, Carl praised his late co-star Burt Reynolds and reshared behind-the-scenes footage from Semi-Tough.
“Burt was ‘the man!’ he tweeted.
“Had nothing but respect for his career success. And he always showed a great sense of humor whenever we crossed paths.”
‘RARE FOOTAGE’
About two weeks ago, Carl’s co-star, Sylvester Stallone, shared footage from their boxing rehearsal from Rocky II on Instagram.
“Practicing for the final fight in Rocky 2. Rare footage.”
“Thought it be fun to share. Keep punching,” the Rocky Balboa director wrote.
In 1977, the first Rocky installment earned an Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay for Stallone and won the awards for Best Picture, Best Directing, and Best Film Editing.
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