(Crankers) People who love the Rocky movies received bad news today as one of the main men who helped make the famous boxing movies become Hollywood hits has tragically passed away at the age of 76. It was Carl Weathers, the legendary actor who played Apollo Creed in four Rocky movies, who passed away today. But don’t forget, the infamous foe of Sylvester Stallone’s character, Rocky Balboa, was also famous for roles in some other movies.
Carl Weathers also starred in Happy Gilmore as Derick “Chubbs” Peterson, an infamous movie starring Adam Sandler. Weathers then had a more serious role in a Star Wars show called The Mandalorian. He played Greef Karga in that show. And don’t forget, Carl Weathers played linebacker for the Raiders for two seasons – and he wasn’t even drafted. WoodTV added some more information about the historic career of Carl Weathers:
Weathers starred in over 75 movies and TV shows during his career, including memorable roles in action films such as Predator, Action Jackson and Toy Story 4. Most recently, he was known for playing Greef Karga (and directing several episodes) in the Disney+ Star Wars series The Mandalorian.
However, his role as Rocky Balboa’s adversary-turned-mentor and friend made Weathers a movie icon. His Apollo Creed was the world heavyweight champion who gave the unknown Philadelphia fighter a title shot in the first Rocky film. Creed lost the belt to Balboa in Rocky II. But he trained his former opponent to face Mr. T’s Clubber Lang in Rocky III. Creed’s storyline ended in Rocky IV when he was killed in the ring by Russian boxer Ivan Drago, played by Dolph Lundgren.
How did Carl Weathers pass away? CBS News provided information on the unfortunate passing of Carl Weathers:
Weathers’ manager Matt Luber confirmed to CBS News that Weathers died at his home in Los Angeles on Thursday. His family issued a statement to the Associated Press saying he died “peacefully in his sleep.”
“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,” his family said in the statement, according to entertainment news outlet Deadline.