Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Actor Carl Weathers of 'Rocky' and 'Predator' Dies at 76

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net | Last updated 2/2/24

Carl Weathers became a star when he first appeared as Apollo Creed opposite Sylvester Stallone in "Rocky" (1976). His acting career spans five decades and is littered with iconic performances in big-ticket franchises. On February 1, 2024, he died in his sleep.

Weathers was born in 1948 in New Orleans, Louisiana, where he played numerous sports, including football. Football helped lead him to San Diego State University where he played on the team. He also studied performance arts but found himself in the NFL before he could get a diploma.

Weathers signed with the Oakland Raiders in 1970 and appeared in eight games over two seasons, plus a pair of games in the playoffs in 1970. He retired from football to focus on his goal, acting.

His first credited appearance was on an episode of the TV show "Good Times" in 1975, and he broke out in a big way with mega success of "Rocky," and the key role he played in making it so.

Some of Weathers' most iconic roles include Dillon in "Predator" (1987), Chubbs in "Happy Gilmore" (1996), Combat Carl in "Toy Story 4" (2019), and Greef Karga in "The Mandalorian." He was nominated for an Emmy Award for his work on "The Mandalorian" in 2021.

Weathers is survived by two sons with his first wife, Mary Anne Castle. R.I.P. to a legend.