The Mandalorian and Rocky star Carl Weathers has passed away at age 76. According to Deadline, the actor passed away on Thursday, February 1st and it was announced to the public by his family on February 2nd. Weathers starred in a massive amount of highly acclaimed films and television shows and will be deeply missed.
Weathers’ family put out a statement announcing the passing of the actor. According to Deadline, the statement reads, “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers,” his family said in their statement. It continues, “He died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, February 1st, 2024… 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.”
Weathers was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on January 14, 1948. The star appeared in over 75 different TV shows and films throughout his entire career. Most recently, he starred in the Disney+ series The Mandalorian playing the role of He Greef Karga, who runs the bounty hunters guild. His character appeared in 9 episodes and with it, Weathers was nominated for an Emmy for his portrayal of the character.
Weathers also appeared in some lighter roles such as making a guest appearance in the comedy series Arrested Development and voicing a character in Toy Story 4 and the made-for-TV special Toy Story of Terror.
With all of his success in his TV career, Weathers is most widely known for playing Apollo Creed in the 1976 movie Rocky. Apollo Creed was characterized as the heavyweight champion who gave the protagonist of the movie franchise, Rocky Balboa, his own hero’s journey as he ventured toward the title himself. He continued to play the role in Rocky II, III, and IV.
Weathers’ cause of death has yet to be revealed.