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Carl Weathers, esteemed actor known for roles in ‘Rocky’ and ‘Mandalorian,’ dies at 76

FILE - Carl Weathers poses at the Disney + launch event promoting “The Mandalorian” at the London West Hollywood hotel in West Hollywood, Calif., on Oct. 19. 2019. Weathers, a former NFL linebacker who became a Hollywood action movie and comedy star, playing nemesis-turned-ally Apollo Creed in the “Rocky” movies, facing-off against Arnold Schwarzenegger in “Predator” and teaching golf in “Happy Gilmore,” died. He was 76. (Photo by Mark Von Holden/Invision/AP, File)
FILE - Carl Weathers poses at the Disney + launch event promoting “The Mandalorian” at the London West Hollywood hotel in West Hollywood, Calif., on Oct. 19. 2019. Weathers, a former NFL linebacker who became a Hollywood action movie and comedy star, playing nemesis-turned-ally Apollo Creed in the “Rocky” movies, facing-off against Arnold Schwarzenegger in “Predator” and teaching golf in “Happy Gilmore,” died. He was 76. (Photo by Mark Von Holden/Invision/AP, File) Mark Von Holden/Invision/AP

Longtime actor Carl Weathers, who starred in the “Rocky” franchise and “Predator,” died Thursday, Feb. 1, multiple outlets, including Variety and Deadline, report.

His family issued a statement to Deadline Friday, Feb. 2, about the 76-year-old “Mandalorian” actor, who died in his sleep.

“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers,” his family said in a statement to Deadline. “He died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, February 1st, 2024. … Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life. 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.”

The actor is also known for his comedy work, which include “Happy Gilmore” and “Arrested Development ” among many other films and television series.

This story was originally published February 2, 2024 at 2:01 PM with the headline "Carl Weathers, esteemed actor known for roles in ‘Rocky’ and ‘Mandalorian,’ dies at 76."

TJ Macias
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
TJ Macías is a Real-Time national sports reporter for McClatchy based out of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Formerly, TJ covered the Dallas Mavericks and Texas Rangers beat for numerous media outlets including 24/7 Sports and Mavs Maven (Sports Illustrated). Twitter: @TayloredSiren
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