Introduction
Carl Weathers, born on January 14, 1948, in New Orleans, Louisiana, was a multifaceted talent who made significant contributions to film, television, and sports. His remarkable journey from the football field to Hollywood stardom left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Let’s delve into the life and career of this legendary actor.
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Early Life and Football Career
- Birthplace: New Orleans, Louisiana
- Height: 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
Weathers was a renowned football star during his college years. As a defensive end, he played for the San Diego State University Aztecs, helping them secure the Pasadena Bowl victory in 1969. His professional football career included stints with the Oakland Raiders and the BC Lions in the early ’70s. However, Weathers decided to retire from football in 1974 to pursue his true passion: acting.
Carl Weathers: From Football Star to Silver Screen:
He landed his breakthrough role in 1976 with the iconic film “Rocky,” portraying the flamboyant boxer Apollo Creed, a rival turned friend of Sylvester Stallone’s underdog Rocky Balboa. Weathers reprised the role in three sequels, solidifying his place in cinematic history.
Apollo Creed: The Rocky Legacy
Weathers gained widespread recognition for portraying Apollo Creed in the iconic Rocky film series (1976–1985). Initially, the role was intended for real-life boxer Ken Norton, but Weathers’s charisma and talent secured him the part. The adversarial relationship between Apollo Creed and Rocky Balboa eventually evolved into a warm friendship, leaving an indelible mark on cinema history.
Predator and Beyond
Weathers’s Hollywood journey extended beyond the boxing ring. In 1987, he starred alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger in the sci-fi action thriller Predator. His portrayal of Dillon, a tough-as-nails soldier, showcased his commanding presence. Despite mixed reviews, Weathers continued to explore diverse roles. Notably, he headlined the action film Action Jackson (1988) and displayed his comedic flair as Chubbs Peterson in the blockbuster Happy Gilmore (1996).
In the Heat of the Night
Transitioning to television, Weathers graced screens in the critically acclaimed series In the Heat of the Night. His portrayal of Dillon, a police officer in a racially charged Southern town, resonated with viewers. The two-hour TV specials allowed Weathers to flex his acting muscles, proving his versatility beyond the big screen.
The Mandalorian: Greef Karga
In recent years, Weathers made a triumphant return to the small screen in The Mandalorian, a groundbreaking Star Wars spin-off series. As Greef Karga, a savvy guild leader and former Rebel shock trooper, Weathers delivered an Emmy-nominated performance. His character’s complexities and leadership added depth to the show’s narrative. Notably, Weathers also directed two episodes, showcasing his creative prowess.
Carl Weathers: Spouses and Relationships
Carl Weathers had a colorful romantic history, with three marriages that shaped his personal life:
- Mary Ann Castle:
- Mary Ann Castle was Carl’s first wife. They married in 1973, the same year he made his debut in the entertainment industry.
- Together, they had two sons: Matthew Weathers and Jason Weathers.
- Unfortunately, their marriage ended in divorce in 1983.
- Rhona Unsell:
- Carl’s second marriage was to Rhona Unsell in February 1984.
- Rhona was by his side during his Hollywood stardom, especially after his appearances in three Rocky movies.
- Their marriage lasted an impressive 22 years before they parted ways in 2006. Despite their long union, they did not have any children together.
- Jennifer Peterson:
- Jennifer Peterson became Carl’s third wife in March 2007, just a year after his second divorce.
- At this point, Carl was deeply entrenched in his acting career, prioritizing television appearances over movie roles.
- Jennifer, an award-winning creative content producer, director, and writer, brought her own talents to the relationship.
- Unfortunately, their marriage lasted only two years, ending in January 2009.
Carl Weathers Net Worth
Carl Weathers achieved financial success through a combination of acting, directing, producing, and other ventures. His net worth stands at an impressive $8 million.
- His acting credits include iconic roles like Apollo Creed in the Rocky films, Colonel Al Dillon in Predator, Jericho “Action” Jackson in Action Jackson, and Chubbs Peterson in Happy Gilmore.
- Weathers also portrayed a fictionalized version of himself in the critically acclaimed series Arrested Development and played Greef Karga in the Disney+ series The Mandalorian.
- Beyond acting, he directed episodes of various TV shows and produced projects like The Defiant Ones and Always Night.
- Additionally, Weathers is actively involved in philanthropic work, supporting organizations like the Big Brothers Association.
Notable TV Shows
Let’s explore some of the TV shows that featured Carl Weathers:
- The Mandalorian (2019–2023):
- In this Star Wars spin-off series, Weathers portrayed Greef Karga, a savvy guild leader and former Rebel shock trooper.
- His Emmy-nominated performance added depth to the show’s narrative.
- In the Heat of the Night (1988):
- Weathers starred in four two-hour TV specials based on the acclaimed film and TV series.
- His portrayal resonated with both critics and viewers.
- Arrested Development (2004; 2013):
- Weathers played a fictionalized version of himself in this beloved comedy series.
- His appearances added humor and charm to the show.
How Did Carl Weathers Lose His Hand?
In the action-packed film Predator, Weathers’s character, Dillon, faces off against the titular monster. During a tense confrontation, the Predator ruthlessly blows off Dillon’s arm. This memorable scene left an indelible mark on Weathers’s career. Interestingly, when he later starred in the Adam Sandler sports comedy Happy Gilmore, his character was also missing a hand—an homage to his classic action role1.
Carl Weathers’s Death
On February 1, 2024, the entertainment world mourned the loss of Carl Weathers. Known for his roles as Apollo Creed in the Rocky films and his appearances in Predator, The Mandalorian, Happy Gilmore, and more, Weathers left an indelible legacy. His family released a statement confirming that he passed away “peacefully in his sleep.” Weathers was not only an exceptional actor but also a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend. His contributions to film, television, the arts, and sports resonate worldwide and across generations.
The Rocky Connection
Weathers’s breakout role came in 1976’s Rocky, where he portrayed the cocky, undisputed heavyweight world champion, Apollo Creed. Originally intended for real-life boxer Ken Norton, the role fell into Weathers’s capable hands after he criticized Sylvester Stallone’s acting during his audition. The success of Rocky catapulted Weathers’s career, and he continued to shine in the next three Rocky movies. His character’s memorable demise occurred in 1984’s Rocky IV, where Apollo Creed faced off against the hulking, steroid-using Soviet Ivan Drago. James Brown’s electrifying performance of “Living in America” set the stage for Creed’s tragic end in the boxing ring, leaving fans both heartbroken and inspired5.
A Multifaceted Talent
Weathers’s journey extended beyond the boxing ring. He flexed his pecs alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger in 1987’s Predator and wielded a flamethrower in 1988’s nouveau blaxploitation flick Action Jackson. His comedic flair shone in Happy Gilmore, where he added a false wooden hand to play a gold pro. Weathers’s versatility also graced the small screen, from his role as an acting coach in Arrested Development to voicing Combat Carl in Toy Story 4. Most recently, he portrayed Greef Karga in The Mandalorian, earning an Emmy Award nomination for outstanding guest actor in a drama series. His creative spirit and impact will be remembered by fans and fellow artists alike.
Are Sylvester Stallone and Carl Weathers friends?
Yes, Sylvester Stallone and Carl Weathers were close friends. They worked together in the Rocky film series, where Weathers portrayed Apollo Creed. Stallone paid tribute to Weathers after his passing, emphasizing their strong bond and the impact Weathers had on his life.
Was Carl Weathers a real Boxer?
No, Carl Weathers was not a real boxer. He was an American actor, director, and former NFL player. However, he convincingly portrayed the iconic boxer Apollo Creed in the first four Rocky films (1976–1985)
Was Carl Weathers in Rocky?
Yes, Carl Weathers played the memorable role of Apollo Creed in the first four Rocky films. His portrayal of the charismatic and formidable boxer left a lasting impact on the franchise and audiences worldwide.
What was the cause of death of Carl Weathers?
The cause of Carl Weathers’s death has not been officially disclosed. His family announced that he passed away “peacefully in his sleep” on February 1, 2024. Weathers was an exceptional actor known for his roles in Rocky, Predator, and The Mandalorian
Why did Carl Weathers quit Rocky?
Carl Weathers did not quit the Rocky franchise. His character, Apollo Creed, met a dramatic end in Rocky IV during a boxing match with Ivan Drago. However, Sylvester Stallone later expressed regret over killing off the character and wished he hadn’t done so.
Which Rocky star died today?
Carl Weathers, known for playing Apollo Creed in the Rocky films, passed away on February 1, 2024. His death was a significant loss for the entertainment industry and fans worldwide.
Who dies in Rocky 4?
In Rocky IV, Apollo Creed (played by Carl Weathers) dies during a brutal boxing match against the Soviet boxer Ivan Drago. The emotional scene left a lasting impact on the franchise.
Is Rocky still alive in Creed?
Yes, in the Creed film series, Sylvester Stallone reprises his role as Rocky Balboa, who serves as a mentor to Apollo Creed’s son, Adonis Creed. Rocky is still alive and plays a significant role in Adonis’s journey as a boxer.
Did Rocky lose in Rocky 1?
In the original Rocky film (1976), Rocky Balboa (played by Sylvester Stallone) loses the heavyweight championship match against Apollo Creed. However, the film focuses on Rocky’s determination and resilience rather than the outcome of the fight.
Who killed Apollo in Rocky?
In Rocky IV, Apollo Creed is killed during a boxing match with the Soviet boxer Ivan Drago. Drago’s powerful punches lead to Apollo’s tragic demise in the ring.
How did Rocky end?
The Rocky film series has several installments, but the final film in the original series is Rocky Balboa (2006). In this film, Rocky Balboa, now retired, returns for one last fight against a younger opponent. The film ends with Rocky’s emotional speech about life and legacy.
Who lost in Rocky 1?
In Rocky 1, Rocky Balboa loses the championship match against Apollo Creed. Despite the loss, Rocky’s determination and heart make him a beloved character.
Is Rocky based on a true story?
Rocky is not based on a true story. It is a fictional sports drama created by Sylvester Stallone. However, the film’s underdog theme and Rocky Balboa’s character resonated with audiences and became iconic.
How old is Rocky in Rocky 1?
In Rocky 1, Rocky Balboa is portrayed as being in his mid-30s. Sylvester Stallone was 30 years old when he played the role.
How old is Rocky in Rocky 4?
In Rocky IV, Rocky Balboa is still in his mid-30s. Sylvester Stallone’s age remained consistent throughout the franchise.