Actor Carl Weathers has died at the age of 76. The one-time 80s heartthrob reinvented himself as a gruff character actor who effortlessly utilized charm, comedy, and warmth to personify roles in such series as "The Mandalorian" and several others.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 28: Carl Weathers attends the Los Angeles Premiere Of Disney+ "The Mandalorian" Season 3 at El Capitan Theatre on February 28, 2023 in Los Angeles, California.
Many of us recall his role as Apollo Creed in the "Rocky" franchise as well as his appearances in Predator and the irreverent silliness of his role as Chubbs in "Happy Gilmore."
"Through his contributions to film, television, the arts and sports, he has left an indelible mark and is recognized worldwide and across generations," his family said. "He was a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend."
Weathers was the voice for Combat Carl in "Toy Story 4" and other shorts in the beloved Disney-Pixar franchise.
He also has acting credits on TV shows such as "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," "Magnum P.I." and "Chicago P.D."
The one-time football standout at San Diego State University played for the Oakland Raider of the National Football League for a brief stint before retiring from the sport in 1974 to give acting his undivided attention.
Weathers was nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actor for his recurring role as Greef Karga in the highly successful Disney + series "The Mandalorian" as well.
No cause of death has been released yet. HNGN will keep you updated on this story as it continues to develop.
