Best known to horror fans for playing Dillon in John McTiernan’s original action-horror classic Predator, acting legend Carl Weathers has passed away this week at the age of 76.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers,” his family said in a statement. “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.”
Carl Weathers appeared in more than 70 films and television shows throughout his career, which began all the way back in the early 1970s. Weathers of course rose to prominence as Apollo Creed in the first four Rocky movies between 1976 and 1985, which were directly followed by his co-starring role in the classic film that launched the iconic Predator franchise.
Carl Weathers is also known for countless other film roles, including Close Encounters of the Third Kind, The Defiant Ones, Action Jackson, Happy Gilmore and Toy Story 4.
On the small screen, Weathers had recently played Greef Karga on Disney+ series “The Mandalorian,” and he appeared in various shows throughout the decades including “The Six Million Dollar Man,” “Starsky and Hutch,” “The Shield,” “ER,” “Brothers,” and “Chicago Justice.”
Weathers, who was nominated for a Primetime Emmy for his role in “The Mandalorian,” was also a director, directing episodes of shows including “Law & Order” and “The Mandalorian.”
Predator co-star Jesse Ventura tweets, “We lost an icon. Carl Weathers was a phenomenal talent, a true professional, and a dear friend. All my sympathies and love to his family. I loved working with him on Predator and then celebrating that film with him at various conventions in the ensuing years. Thank you, Carl.”
Arnold Schwarzenegger tweets, “Carl Weathers will always be a legend. An extraordinary athlete, a fantastic actor, and a great person. We couldn’t have made Predator without him. And we certainly wouldn’t have had such a wonderful time making it. Every minute with him – on set and off – was pure joy. He was the type of friend who pushes you to be your best just to keep up with him. I’ll miss him, and my thoughts are with his family.”
We send our deepest condolences to Weathers’ family and friends at this time.
