On February 9th, 2024, an announcement was made of the death of actor Carl Weathers. He died of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Weathers is best known for his role as Apollo Creed in the “Rocky” film series.
The actor died in his sleep at his home in Venice, California, just after midnight on February 2, 2024. He was 76 years old. His family remembered him as an “exceptional human being” who had lived an “extraordinary life.”
Weathers had been battling atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease for many years. This condition, which leads to the arteries becoming hardened and narrowed due to fatty deposits, increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease, according to the American Heart Association.
Born on January 14, 1948, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Weathers initially pursued a football career. He played for San Diego State University and later joined the Oakland Raiders as a free agent in 1970. He appeared in eight games over two seasons before his NFL career ended.
Weathers then turned to acting, a move that would define his legacy. Over a career spanning more than five decades, Weathers took on a variety of roles that showcased his talent and versatility. His most iconic role was Apollo Creed in the 1976 film “Rocky”, a character that embodied perseverance and strength.
Apart from “Rocky,” Weathers performed in “Predator,” “Happy Gilmore,” and “The Mandalorian,” and lent his voice to the “Toy Story” franchise. His performance in “The Mandalorian” earned him an Emmy nomination in 2021 for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series. He also directed episodes of “The Mandalorian,” highlighting his dedication to his craft.
Before his death, Weathers completed a Super Bowl commercial for FanDuel with former Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski. The commercial aired during the 2024 Super Bowl and included a special tribute to Weathers.
Following the announcement of Weathers’ death, his “Rocky” co-star and longtime friend Sylvester Stallone expressed his grief. Stallone described Weathers as having played a pivotal role in his career and life.
Weathers left behind a significant legacy in the worlds of sports and entertainment. He is survived by his ex-wife, Mary Ann, and their two sons.
