‘Rocky’ and ‘Predator’ star Carl Weathers has passed away at the age of 76.
The American actor and director, who added 4 producing, 17 directing, and 80 acting credits to his name, was best known for his roles in the likes of Predator and Rocky. Appearing in four Rocky installments, the actor portrayed Rocky Balboa’s opponent-turned-boxing mentor Apollo Creed.
According to the actor’s family, the 76-year-old died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, February 1.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers. He died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, February 1st, 2024,” they said.
“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.”
Before rising to fame as the Apollo Creed star, Weathers also played football professionally. His role in Rocky later inspired the films’ spin-off movie series Creed in which Michael B. Jordan portrays Apollo’s secret son Adonis Creed.
Previously, Weathers revealed that he slammed Stallone and his acting abilities during his Rocky audition. Rather than getting dismissed, however, Weather sparked interest in Stallone which in return helped him land the role.
“There was nobody to read with, and they said you’re going to read with the writer [Stallone],” the actor said.
“So I just blurted out, ‘I could do a lot better if you got me a real actor to work with.’ So I just insulted the star of the movie without really knowing it and not intending to.”
Fortunately, Stallone didn’t see an issue with the jibe. “Sometimes the mistakes are the ones that get you the gig,” Weathers added.
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