Carl Weathers’ official cause of death has been revealed a week after the actor passed away in his sleep.
According to his death certificate, obtained by The Blast, the “Rocky” movie franchise actor succumbed to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease after battling the heart condition for years.
The 76-year-old died at his home in Venice, California, at the beginning of February, according to the certificate. He was then cremated, and his death was notified by his son, Matthew Weathers.
Weathers’ family confirmed his untimely death last week, describing him as an “exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life.” They remembered him as a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend, who made a significant impact across the entertainment industry and sports.
Born in New Orleans in 1948, Weathers’ successful Hollywood career spanned over 50 years, with notable roles in movies such as “Predator,” “Happy Gilmore,” and “The Mandalorian.” Nonetheless, he is best known for his portrayal of the iconic fictional boxer Apollo Creed in the “Rocky” movies.
He first appeared as Apollo Creed in the 1976 movie “Rocky,” reprising the role in “Rocky II” and “Rocky III”. His character met a dramatic end in 1985’s “Rocky IV” but continued to live on in the recent “Creed” movies, with Michael B. Jordan portraying his son, Adonis. A career with appearances in numerous hit TV shows followed, including “The Shield,” “Street Justice,” “Colony,” “Chicago P.D.,” and “Brothers.”
Weathers’ work as Combat Carl in the “Toy Story” franchise and his cameo roles on “The Mandalorian” brought him great recognition, earning him an Emmy nomination in 2021 for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series.
Before his successful acting career, he played college football at San Diego State University and even had a brief stint with the NFL’s Oakland Raiders. Weathers was also known for his roles in “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” and “The Comebacks.”
Before his untimely death, fans also learned that Weathers had filmed a Super Bowl commercial for FanDuel to air during the big game this Sunday.
