![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Apollo-Creed.jpg?width=600)
via Getty
Actor Carl Weathers on set of the United Artist movie “Rocky II” in 1979. (Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Apollo-Creed.jpg?width=600)
via Getty
Actor Carl Weathers on set of the United Artist movie “Rocky II” in 1979. (Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
“He was a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend,” a statement read from the family members of Carl Weathers. The former NFL linebacker and the face of ‘Apollo Creed’ from the ‘Rocky’ movies sadly passed to the world beyond at the age of 76 on Thursday. The update comes after the statement revealed the news today!
As the unfortunate news of his passing “peacefully in his sleep” took over the internet today, peers and other celebrities promptly turned to social media to express the loss of a talented actor and a friend. Some of the most notable names are Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone, Jake Paul, Andrew Tate, and others. But before that, here’s what Weather’s family said in their statement!
Carl Weathers: An extraordinary human being to live an extraordinary life
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The role most boxing fans know him for wasn’t originally meant for Weathers. Instead, it was to be played by real-life boxer Ken Norton. However, after Weathers criticized Stallone’s acting during the auditions, he was given the role of ‘Apollo Creed.’ Besides his roles revolving around boxing, the talented actor appeared in ‘The Predator, Star Wars,’ and most recently in the television series ‘The Mandalorian.’
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After he left behind years of memories and legacy in the industry, his family addressed his fans and the world through his agent. “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers,” the statement read. “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.” Meanwhile, after his peers learned of the news, they released their statements about Weathers’ demise.
The world celebrates a legacy of brilliance
Among the numerous names who wrote about Weathers’ demise, these were the individuals who shared a close connection with him, having known and worked alongside him. Co-star from the ‘Predator’ movie, Arnold Schwarzenegger, reflected on their time together.
Carl Weathers will always be a legend. An extraordinary athlete, a fantastic actor, and a great person. We couldn’t have made Predator without him. And we certainly wouldn’t have had such a wonderful time making it. pic.twitter.com/q4CWVVeyTK
— Arnold (@Schwarzenegger) February 2, 2024
However, Schwarzenegger wasn’t the only co-star to express his thoughts on social media. Adam Sandler, who worked with Carl in several movies, including the 1996 ‘Happy Gilmore,’ suggested everyone loved him.
A true great man. Great dad. Great actor. Great athlete. So much fun to be around always. Smart as hell. Loyal as hell. Funny as hell. Loved his sons more than anything. What a guy!! Everyone loved him. My wife and I had the best times with him every time we saw him. Love to… pic.twitter.com/Gi2lPWFTgt
— Adam Sandler (@AdamSandler) February 2, 2024
Yet another proud co-star, Gina Carano, who appeared alongside Weathers in ‘The Mandalorian’ series, expressed her thoughts about Carl’s passing in a lengthy X tweet while sharing a picture of the two from the set of the show.
Hearing the news of Carl Weathers passing today is shocking, I’m going to struggle through these words…
I was so looking forward to giving Carl the biggest hug at one of these fan expos I heard we were both going to be at this year. I looked forward to that reunion.
Carl… pic.twitter.com/nLrCLMQNQ1
— Gina Carano 🕯 (@ginacarano) February 3, 2024
Even YouTuber turned boxer Jake Paul hopped on the social media platform to express his views on Carl’s passing.
There would be no Rocky Balboa without Apollo Creed. Rest in peace Mr. Weathers.
— Jake Paul (@jakepaul) February 2, 2024
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And finally, internet personality and former mixed martial artist Andrew Tate paid his respects to the late actor.
No. No.
Not Apollo Creed.
Sad day.
RIP my G. pic.twitter.com/Mo2RkmsjiS
— Andrew Tate (@Cobratate) February 2, 2024
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While Carl Weathers has passed on to the next world to continue his journey of excellence, the entire world celebrated the time and moments Weathers spent with them on this planet. Were you a fan of Carl’s movies? Would you celebrate his life by bingeing the ‘Rocky’ movies?
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