“He was a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend,” a statement read from the family members of Carl Weathers. The former NFL linebacker and the face of ‘Apollo Creed’ from the ‘Rocky’ movies sadly passed to the world beyond at the age of 76 on Thursday. The update comes after the statement revealed the news today! 

As the unfortunate news of his passing “peacefully in his sleep” took over the internet today, peers and other celebrities promptly turned to social media to express the loss of a talented actor and a friend. Some of the most notable names are Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone, Jake Paul, Andrew Tate, and others. But before that, here’s what Weather’s family said in their statement!

Carl Weathers: An extraordinary human being to live an extraordinary life

The role most boxing fans know him for wasn’t originally meant for Weathers. Instead, it was to be played by real-life boxer Ken Norton. However, after Weathers criticized Stallone’s acting during the auditions, he was given the role of ‘Apollo Creed.’ Besides his roles revolving around boxing, the talented actor appeared in ‘The Predator, Star Wars,’ and most recently in the television series ‘The Mandalorian.’

After he left behind years of memories and legacy in the industry, his family addressed his fans and the world through his agent. “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers,” the statement read. “Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life,” the statement continued. Through his contributions to film, television, the arts, and sports, he has left an indelible mark and is recognized worldwide and across generations.” Meanwhile, after his peers learned of the news, they released their statements about Weathers’ demise.

Get the EssentiallySports Daily Newsletter. Stay ahead of the game with daily updates, exclusive stories, expert takes, and the biggest moments from the world's most popular sports.

The world celebrates a legacy of brilliance

Among the numerous names who wrote about Weathers’ demise, these were the individuals who shared a close connection with him, having known and worked alongside him. Co-star from the ‘Predator’ movie, Arnold Schwarzenegger, reflected on their time together.  

However, Schwarzenegger wasn’t the only co-star to express his thoughts on social media. Adam Sandler, who worked with Carl in several movies, including the 1996 ‘Happy Gilmore,’ suggested everyone loved him. 

Yet another proud co-star, Gina Carano, who appeared alongside Weathers in ‘The Mandalorian’ series, expressed her thoughts about Carl’s passing in a lengthy X tweet while sharing a picture of the two from the set of the show.

Also Read: “RIP” – Heartbroken Dana White Joins Sylvester Stallone to Mourn the Loss of ‘Apollo Creed’ Carl Weathers

Even YouTuber turned boxer Jake Paul hopped on the social media platform to express his views on Carl’s passing. 

And finally, internet personality and former mixed martial artist Andrew Tate paid his respects to the late actor. 

While Carl Weathers has passed on to the next world to continue his journey of excellence, the entire world celebrated the time and moments Weathers spent with them on this planet. Were you a fan of Carl’s movies? Would you celebrate his life by bingeing the ‘Rocky’ movies? 

Watch This Story: Sylvester Stallone’s Earnings From ‘Rocky’ & ‘Creed’ Movies