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Hollywood mourns the loss of a legend as Carl Weathers, the former NFL linebacker turned Hollywood action movie and comedy star, passed away at the age of 76. Known for his iconic role as Apollo Creed in the "Rocky" movies and his versatile career spanning blockbuster hits like "Predator" and comedy classics like "Happy Gilmore," Weathers left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
Weathers, a charismatic and multifaceted actor, seamlessly transitioned from flexing muscles in "Action Jackson" to showcasing his comedic talents on shows like "Arrested Development." However, he remains most closely associated with the character of Apollo Creed, who made a significant impact in the "Rocky" series, capturing audiences' hearts since his debut in 1976.
In a career that spanned decades, Weathers continued to captivate audiences with roles in "Predator" alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger, the classic comedy "Happy Gilmore" with Adam Sandler, and more recently, the Disney+ hit "The Mandalorian," where he appeared in all three seasons.
Weathers' journey from the football field to the big screen exemplified his versatility. Starting as an NFL linebacker, he eventually pursued his passion for acting, majoring in theater at San Diego State University. He briefly played for the Oakland Raiders in 1970 and continued his football career in the Canadian Football League while finishing his studies.
In addition to his acting prowess, Weathers admired trailblazers such as Sidney Poitier and Jim Brown, expressing gratitude for the pathway they created. Reflecting on his career in a 2023 interview, Weathers said, "There are so many people that came before me who I admired and whose success I wanted to emulate, and just kind of hit the benchmarks they hit in terms of success."
As Hollywood remembers Carl Weathers for his contributions to the entertainment world, his legacy will live on through the characters he portrayed and the impact he had on audiences worldwide.