Carl Weathers, the legendary actor renowned for his portrayal of Apollo Creed in the Rocky film series and roles in iconic movies like Predator, passed away on Friday at the age of 76. Weathers was best known for being an actor, but he was also a former NFL linebacker and a Canadian Football player for the BC Lions.
However, it was his work as an actor that fans will remember. He was part of one of the biggest underdog-becomes-hero movies ever – Rocky.
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A Journey from the Gridiron to the Silver Screen
Weathers was a defensive end in his college football days and was a key player for the San Diego State Aztecs. He was a huge part of their undefeated season in 1969 and helped them win the 1969 Pasadena Bowl.
Weathers first played professional football with the Oakland Raiders in 1970. After a year playing as a linebacker, he shifted to strong safety for a second season before being released. He eventually joined the BC Lions in the Canadian Football League and played there for three seasons until 1973. He retired from football in 1974.
Remembering Weathers’ Hollywood Legacy
Weathers started his acting career in 1974 and appeared in over 75 films and TV shows spanning more than 50 years. He achieved stardom with his portrayal of Apollo Creed, Rocky Balboa’s unforgettable rival-turned-friend. But he also played in different roles like Colonel Al Dillon in Predator and Chubbs Peterson in Happy Gilmore. In recent years, Weathers earned an Emmy nomination in the Star Wars epic The Mandalorian.
Weathers’s passing evoked genuine tributes from former co-stars Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone. Stallone, recalling the Rocky films, credited Weathers with bringing greatness to the iconic series. Schwarzenegger recognized Weathers as a “legend” and expressed gratitude for the moments they shared on and off the set of Predator.
Born in New Orleans, Weathers leaves behind a legacy that transcends both movies and sports. He made contributions to both. For me, he was great in the Rocky movies – I’ve watched and enjoyed them all.
