In a heartfelt Instagram video, Sylvester Stallone, who starred in "Rocky," paid tribute to Carl Weathers, 76, who died Thursday, saying that he would "never could have accomplished what we did with 'Rocky' without him."
Weather, a former NFL linebacker, became a Hollywood action movie and comedy star in roles such nemesis-turned-ally Apollo Creed in the "Rocky" movies, facing off against Arnold Schwarzenegger in "Predator," and teaching golf in "Happy Gilmore."
"I give him incredible credit and kudos because when he walked into that room and I saw him for the first time, I saw greatness. But I didn't realize how great," Stallone said. "He was absolutely brilliant — his voice, his size, his power, his athletic ability. But more importantly his heart, his soul.
"He was magic, and I was so fortunate to be part of his life. So, Apollo, keep punching."
Arnold Schwarzenegger also remembered Weathers on social media.
"Carl Weathers will always be a legend," Schwarzenegger wrote in an Instagram post. "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."
Jamie Foxx wrote that Weathers "inspired me to do what I do."
"Every time I watched Rocky I always rooted for Apollo Creed," Foxx wrote on social media, according to People. "Hearing of his passing, brought real tears to my eyes … God has just gained another angel #swipeleft look through these photos and see a man who curated an incredible career."
Actor Marlon Wayans said: "A hero is only as good as your villain … APOLLO was great and it made ROCKY greater," Wayans said, according to People. "This movie changed my life. It empowered me as a young black actor/man to see a character played with such finesse and dignity as Carl Wethers gave Apollo. Thank you for always being a beacon of dignity … rest well."
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
Zoe Papadakis ✉
Zoe Papadakis is a Newsmax writer based in South Africa with two decades of experience specializing in media and entertainment. She has been in the news industry as a reporter, writer and editor for newspapers, magazine and websites.
© 2024 Newsmax. All rights reserved.