By Mark Gray
9:39am PST, Feb 11, 2024
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Carl Weathers — who famously starred as Apollo Creed in the "Rocky" franchise — "died peacefully in his sleep" on Feb. 1, his family said in a statement. The former NFL linebacker, who played for the Oakland Raiders in the 1970s, was 76.
"Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life," they said. "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."
On Feb. 9, The Blast reported that Carl's death certificate indicates he died from "atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease" after suffering from heart disease for years. He was reportedly cremated
In addition to his work in the "Rocky" franchise, Carl also starred in "Predator," "Action Jackson," "Happy Gilmore" and more. In 2021, he earned an Emmy nomination for his work on the "Star Wars" show "The Mandalorian."
After he died, many of his famous friends, fans and colleagues took to social media to say goodbye.
Keep reading to see how other stars are mourning Carl Weathers…
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"Rocky" co-star Sylvester Stallone posted a video on Instagram honoring Carl Weathers.
"Today is an incredibly sad day for me. I'm so torn up, I can't even tell you. I'm just trying to hold it in because Carl Weathers was such an integral part of my life, my success — everything about it, I give him incredible credit and kudos. Because when he walked into that room and I saw him for the first time, I saw greatness. But I didn't realize how great," Sly said. "I never could've accomplished what we did with 'Rocky' without him."
He continued, "He was absolutely brilliant — his voice, his size, his presence, his athletic ability, but, most importantly, his heart, his soul. It's a horrible loss. He was magic. I was so fortunate to be part of his life. Apollo, keep punching."
MORE: Stars we lost in 2024
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"Carl Weathers will always be a legend. An extraordinary athlete, a fantastic actor and a great person. We couldn't have made 'Predator' without him. And we certainly wouldn't have had such a wonderful time making it." —"Predator" co-star Arnold Schwarzenegger
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"A true great man. Great dad. Great actor. Great athlete. So much fun to be around always. Smart as hell. Loyal as hell. Funny as hell. Loved his sons more than anything. What a guy!! Everyone loved him. My wife and I had the best times with him every time we saw him. Love to his entire family and Carl will always be known as a true legend." —Adam Sandler, who co-starred with Carl Weathers in "Happy Gilmore" and also worked with him on a handful of other projects
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"words fail #CarlWeathers" —Pedro Pascal, who co-starred on "The Mandalorian" with Carl Weathers
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"I first met Carl on the football field. I think I was a rookie and we were playing Oakland and it was during warm ups and he ran up to me — I guess he was playing linebacker for the Raiders, trying to make the team — and he introduced himself and told me he was an actor and wanted to talk to me about it. I had my trainer give him my phone number. We talked once in a while but not that much. He almost immediately went on to have success as an actor… He was a terrific guy. Very, very nice guy and a very talented actor, I might add." —O.J. Simpson
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"Rest in peace to the truly amazing actor and entertainer, Carl Weathers. We all marveled at his talents on the big screen in the 'Rocky' franchise as Apollo Creed, and I really enjoyed him in his role as the police chief in the hit TV show 'In the Heat of the Night.' Cookie and I are praying for the Weathers family during this difficult time." —Magic Johnson
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"RIP to the legend Carl Weathers. This moment, your delivery of it in 'Rocky' inspired me the moment I heard it. I live my life by it. Your voice and performance gave me belief. I love you for that. Rest in peace and power, man." —Dane Cook
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"We lost a legend" —Michael B. Jordan
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"God bless Carl Weathers. A wonderful actor and athlete. I got to know him years ago. He hosted 'SNL' and was so great to work with. So great in 'Rocky.' And such a nice guy. Another good guy, gone. This is very sad news. God bless him and his family." —Jon Lovitz
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"Say it ain't so!! Apollo Creed!! RIP TO MR. Carl Weathers!" —Leslie Jones
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"We lost an icon. Carl Weathers was a phenomenal talent, a true professional, and a dear friend. All my sympathies and love to his family. I loved working with him on 'Predator' and then celebrating that film with him at various conventions in the ensuing years. Thank you, Carl." —Jesse Ventura
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"A sad day and a big loss. 76-year-old Carl Weathers has passed away. Who can forget him as Apollo Creed in the great 'Rocky' franchise… condolences to his family." —Deborah Roberts
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"Carl Weathers has passed away at the age of 76. There is no Rocky without Apollo Creed and we were lucky that Carl brought him to life. RIP to a legend." —former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III
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"I just saw Carl Weathers at a convention before Xmas. He was strong, vibrant and so full of energy. Probably in better shape than 98% of the population. Damn, man, enjoy your life, because you just never know. You are a Legend. Rest in peace." –Jamie Kennedy
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"Will miss the great Carl Weathers who I was very fortunate to work with on several occasions. A very kind and generous person. His performances were always electrifying and he was also a terrific director of both stage and screen." —filmmaker Robert Rodriguez, who shared this selfie with Carl Weathers on the set of "The Mandalorian"
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"Had the honor of meeting the AMAZING and HANDSOME #CarlWeathers at #ComicCon in NY. Thanks for ya gifts sir! U will be truly missed! #APOLLOCREED #GONETOOSOON #RESTINPOWER #RESTINPARADISE" –Vivica A. Fox
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"I will sorely miss my dear friend & brother Carl Weathers. You are truly one of the most wonderful human beings I have had the honor & pleasure of spending time with! I am grateful for your influence & support of all things good in my life. This is how I will always remember you." –Giancarlo Esposito on X alongside a photo with Carl
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"I had the pleasure of knowing and working with Carl Weathers, you were a beautiful soul. May you rest in peace." –Danny Trejo
