The entertainment industry grieves the loss of Carl Weathers, a renowned actor celebrated for his portrayal of Apollo Creed in the “Rocky” franchise and as Greef Karga in “The Mandalorian.”

Weathers died in his sleep on Thursday, February 1, 2024, at the age of 76.

His family confirmed his death in a statement released Thursday, memorializing an illustrious career that stretched over several decades with roles in numerous significant cinema and television productions.

Weathers was born on January 14, 1948, in New Orleans, Louisiana. His path to fame started on the football field. He played college football at San Diego State University, later going professional with the Oakland Raiders and the B.C. Lions in the Canadian Football League. His transition to acting, however, solidified his standing in the entertainment industry.

His career in acting took off in 1976 with his role as Apollo Creed, the skilled and charismatic boxing champion, in “Rocky.” His portrayal of Creed, a role he reprised in three sequels, received critical acclaim and a fan following. His depiction of strength, charm, and complexity solidified Apollo Creed as a pivotal character in the “Rocky” series and as a paragon of sports cinema.

Weathers’ career is marked by a diverse array of roles that showcased his acting range. In 1987, he featured alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger in “Predator,” adding to his action star status. His filmography includes notable roles in “Action Jackson,” “Happy Gilmore,” and a range of television roles from dramas to comedies, including a significant guest appearance on “Arrested Development.”

In recent times, Weathers won over a new generation of viewers with his role as Greef Karga on the Disney+ series “The Mandalorian.” His performance in the “Star Wars” universe received positive reviews and an Emmy nomination, reflecting his enduring talent and appeal.

Weathers’ influence reached beyond the screen. He blazed a trail for African American actors in Hollywood, breaking down barriers and inspiring many with his performances and professionalism. In interviews, Weathers emphasized the value of versatility in acting, a principle that guided his career decisions and allowed him to explore a broad range of characters and genres.

Carl Weathers leaves behind his two sons, Jason and Matthew. His legacy in film and television is unparalleled, boasting a body of work that is set to entertain and inspire future generations.

Adam Sandler, Weathers’ co-star in “Happy Gilmore,” remembered him as “a great man, actor, athlete, and someone who was always fun to be around.” Tributes have been pouring in from colleagues and fans globally, underscoring the widespread respect and admiration for Weathers’ contributions to the entertainment industry.

As news of his death circulates, the industry and fans reflect on the significant imprint Carl Weathers has left on film and television. His performances, marked by their intensity, humor, and humanity, have become part of cinematic history. Weathers’s career stands as a testament to his talent, work ethic, and the influence one person can exert on the cultural landscape.