Rocky Star Carl Weathers Dies at 76: Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone Pay Tribute
The world of Hollywood is mourning the loss of a legendary actor as Carl Weathers, best known for his role as Apollo Creed in the Rocky film franchise, has passed away at the age of 76. Former co-stars Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone have paid tribute to the NFL linebacker-turned-actor, highlighting his exceptional talent and the impact he made on the industry.
Weathers’s family released a statement on Friday, describing him as an extraordinary human being who lived an extraordinary life. They acknowledged his contributions to film, television, the arts, and sports, emphasizing that he has left an indelible mark on the world and is recognized worldwide and across generations.
Carl Weathers, a former NFL linebacker who transitioned into a Hollywood action star, gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Apollo Creed, Rocky Balboa’s rival-turned-ally in the Rocky film series. The first Rocky film, released in 1976 and featuring the relatively unknown Sylvester Stallone, became an unexpected success, winning the Oscar for Best Picture and propelling both actors to stardom.
Weathers also had notable roles in other iconic films such as Predator (1987), where he played the brash Colonel Al Dillon alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Happy Gilmore, where he portrayed the one-handed golf coach Chubbs Peterson in the Adam Sandler-led comedy. More recently, he starred in the Star Wars spin-off series, The Mandalorian, earning him an Emmy nomination.
Sylvester Stallone took to Instagram to pay tribute to his late co-star, acknowledging that the success of the Rocky films would not have been possible without Weathers. Stallone expressed his admiration for Weathers, stating that when he first saw him, he saw greatness. He credited Weathers’s brilliance, both in terms of his physical attributes such as his voice, size, power, and athletic ability, as well as his heart and soul, for their accomplishments together.
Arnold Schwarzenegger also shared his condolences on Instagram, describing Weathers as a legend. He praised Weathers’s extraordinary athleticism, fantastic acting skills, and his overall character. Schwarzenegger specifically mentioned their collaboration in the film Predator, stating that it would not have been possible without Weathers. He fondly reminisced about the joy they experienced on and off set, emphasizing that every minute spent with Weathers was pure joy.
Born in New Orleans, Carl Weathers had a successful football career, playing for San Diego State University and the Oakland Raiders before retiring in 1974 to pursue acting. Throughout his more than 50-year career in Hollywood, he appeared in over 75 films and TV shows, leaving an enduring legacy in the entertainment industry.
Weathers is survived by his two sons. His family described him as a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend. The news of his passing has deeply saddened fans and colleagues alike, as they remember him not only for his remarkable talent but also for the impact he had on their lives.
Carl Weathers’s death marks the end of an era in Hollywood. His contributions to the film industry will forever be remembered, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of actors and filmmakers. As the world mourns the loss of this exceptional talent, we can take solace in the fact that his work will live on through the timeless characters he brought to life on the silver screen.
