The cause of death for Carl Weathers, renowned for his role as Apollo Creed in the “Rocky” series, has been revealed a week after his passing. Reports indicate that Weathers died due to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, a condition he had been battling for years. The beloved actor, aged 76, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his Venice, California home on February 2nd. Following his death, Weathers was cremated, with his son, Matthew Weathers, informing authorities.
In a statement, Weathers’ family paid tribute to his extraordinary life and contributions to film, television, sports, and the arts. Born in New Orleans in 1948, Weathers enjoyed a prolific Hollywood career spanning over five decades. While he had notable roles in films like “Predator” and “Happy Gilmore,” he is most remembered for his iconic portrayal of Apollo Creed.
Debuting as Creed in 1976’s “Rocky,” Weathers reprised the role in subsequent films, leaving an indelible mark on cinema. His character’s legacy continued through Michael B. Jordan’s portrayal of Apollo Creed’s son, Adonis, in the “Creed” movies.
Weathers’ talents extended beyond acting, with appearances in popular TV shows like “The Shield” and “Arrested Development.” Additionally, he lent his voice to characters in the “Toy Story” franchise.
Before pursuing acting, Weathers had a brief career in professional football, playing for the Oakland Raiders in the NFL. Even in his later years, he remained active in the entertainment industry, recently filming a Super Bowl commercial for FanDuel alongside Rob Gronkowski.
With his passing, Carl Weathers leaves behind a lasting legacy and an unforgettable impact on the world of entertainment.
