Carl Weathers signed with the Oakland Raiders as an undrafted free agent in 1970, launching a professional career that bridged top-tier sports and cinema. Before becoming a screen regular, he played as a linebacker in the National Football League and the Canadian Football League, eventually transitioning to a prolific acting career spanning five decades.
Athletic Beginnings
Born in New Orleans in 1948, Weathers developed his physical versatility early, participating in boxing, gymnastics, and wrestling at St. Augustine High School. He continued his athletic pursuits at Long Beach City College and San Diego State University. As a member of the San Diego State Aztecs, he played under coach Don Coryell and contributed to the team's 1969 Pasadena Bowl victory.
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Weathers entered the NFL in 1970, playing seven games as a linebacker for the Oakland Raiders. Following his release in 1971, he joined the BC Lions of the Canadian Football League, where he played until 1973. He recorded one fumble recovery during his time in the CFL. He officially retired from professional football in 1974 after earning a bachelor's degree in drama from San Francisco State University.
Screen Career
Weathers gained international attention for his portrayal of Apollo Creed in the first four films of the Rocky series between 1976 and 1985. His filmography grew to include roles in Predator, Action Jackson, and the comedy Happy Gilmore, where he played Chubbs Peterson. In his later years, he became a consistent presence in television, notably earning an Emmy nomination for his performance as Greef Karga in The Mandalorian.
Production and Directorial Work
Beyond performing in front of the camera, Weathers worked as a director and producer. He led Red Tight Media, a company that produced tactical training materials for the United States military. His television credits as an actor included series such as Street Justice, In the Heat of the Night, and recurring comedic appearances as a fictionalized version of himself in Arrested Development.
Fast facts
- Born: January 14, 1948, New Orleans
- Died: February 2, 2024, Los Angeles
- NFL Team: Oakland Raiders
- CFL Team: BC Lions
- Notable Role: Apollo Creed in Rocky
- Education: San Diego State University
- Notable Role: Chubbs Peterson in Happy Gilmore
Questions readers ask
Did Carl Weathers play in the NFL?
Yes, he played for the Oakland Raiders as a linebacker during the 1970 season.
What was his role in the Rocky films?
He portrayed the boxer Apollo Creed in the first four films of the franchise released between 1976 and 1985.
