American actor Carl Weathers, known for having played the boxer Apollo Creed opposite Sylvester Stallone in the saga Rockydied at the age of 76, his family announced on Friday February 2.
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Carl Weathers died Thursday, February 1, peacefully in his sleep », According to a press release published by his relatives. The actor has appeared in more than 75 American films and television series during his career. His most famous role remains that of Apollo Creed, a tireless African-American puncher who finds himself challenged in the ring by Sylvester Stallone in the saga Rocky.
Worship
In the movie original from 1976, Apollo Creed is a world heavyweight champion who puts his belt on the line against a complete stranger, played by Sylvester Stallone. Their final confrontation, with its share of blood, broken bones and blows filmed in slow motion, remains a cult moment and a reference in terms of fight films. The first Rocky won the Oscar for Best Picture and launched the immense career of Sylvester Stallone.
First an enemy of Rocky Balboa, the character of Apollo Creed transforms during the films into the boxer’s traveling companion. A development which allowed years later to relaunch the franchise, under the name Creedwhere Stallone becomes the coach of Adonis, the son of Apollo.
Carl Weathers had also been opposite in the film Predator (1987) to Arnold Schwarzenegger, who deplored, Friday February 2, the loss of a “ legend “. “ An extraordinary athlete, a fantastic actor and a wonderful person », greeted the actor. “ We couldn’t have done Predator without him. And we certainly wouldn’t have had as much fun doing it. »
Became Greef Karga
“ Carl Weathers was a phenomenal talent, a true professional and a dear friend », also greeted the actor Jesse Ventura, who had played with him in Predator before becoming governor of Minnesota. More recently, Carl Weathers appeared in several episodes of the series The Mandalorianinspired by the universe Star Wars. He played Greef Karga, head of the bounty hunters’ guild who informs the Mandalorian of the wanted notice issued for Grogu, the little creature nicknamed “Baby Yoda” by fans.
Carl Weathers was born in 1948 in New Orleans. Before becoming an actor, he played eight games in the NFL, the professional American football league in the United States.
(With AFP)
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