Carl Weathers, who starred as Apollo Creed in the first four “Rocky” films opposite Sylvester Stallone, died Thursday, his manager Matt Luber confirmed to Variety. He was 76.
Born January 14, 1948, Weathers first played linebacker in the NFL, signing with the Oakland Raiders. He then turned to acting and, in a career that spanned over 50 years, appeared in several classic films and series of various genres. He portrayed the iconic boxer Apollo Creed, heavyweight champion, in the first four Rocky films; over the course of the series, he would evolve from Rocky’s rival to best friend and trainer, creating a beloved character that would spawn the spinoff Creed trilogy. Weathers also starred in 1987’s Predator, 1988’s Action Jackson, and made a memorable comedic turn in 1996’s Happy Gilmore opposite Adam Sandler.
Who could forget his entrance in Rocky IV, clad in a star-spangled waistcoat and top hat ensemble? He positively sashayed into that ring, his Uncle Sam-inspired heels clicking with ferocity, ready to face his impeccably chiseled Russian opponent. It was a masterclass in both athleticism and attitude. I still get chills remembering how that crystal-encrusted peacock-feathered train billowed behind him majestically.
Even off-screen, whether walking red carpets or strolling Rodeo Drive with his leading ladies, Carl always embodied old Hollywood glamour. I’ll never forget the time I spotted him lunching at the Polo Lounge in custom crocodile Oxfords—sublime. That man knew how to choose a heel that made a statement.
Of course, his on-screen style was equally iconic. His RAF Simmons mesh pump moment playing Jackson in Action Jackson? Legendary. And who could forget his gravity-defying dance number in the steel-tipped Chelsea boots in Predator? They were the perfect foil for that razor-sharp alien hunter.
With the launch of The Mandalorian on Disney+, Weathers joined the galaxy far, far away as Greef Karga — an expeditor for the Bounty Hunter Guild who rises to become Magistrate of Nevarro, and ally to the Mandalorian and Grogu. He would receive an Emmy Award nomination for his efforts. In addition, Weathers stepped into the director’s chair for the critically-acclaimed episodes “Chapter 12: The Siege” and “Chapter 20: The Foundling.”
“I am heartbroken by this devastating loss,” says Jon Favreau, creator of The Mandalorian. “He was a hero from my childhood who I was lucky enough to meet and then had the amazing good fortune to work with. He had the energy and curiosity of a young man paired with the wisdom that his rich life and career afforded him. My heart goes out to his family and countless admirers.
