Carl Weathers, who starred as Apollo Creed in the first four “Rocky” films, died Tuesday, the family said in a statement.

“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers,” according to the family statement. “Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life.”

“Through his contributions to film, television, the arts and sports, he has left an indelible mark and is recognized worldwide and across generations. He was a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend.”

Weathers appeared in “Predator,” “The Mandalorian,” “Happy Gilmore,” “Action Jackson” and more.

Weathers, born in New Orleans, appeared in more than 75 films and TV shows during his 50-year screen career.

He appeared in nine episodes of the Disney+ “Star Wars” series “The Mandalorian” over its three seasons, playing Greef Karga, the head of the Bounty Hunters Guild. T

Weathers is best known for playing Apollo Creed, the antagonist to Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) and it launched his career in the 1976 original movie.

He reprised the role in “Rocky II” (1979), which featured a title rematch with Balboa, and 1982′s “Rocky III,” where he brawled with Clubber Lang (Mr. T). Creed’s final film in the franchise was “Rocky IV” (1985), where he was killed in the ring by Russian heavyweight Ivan Drago (Dolph Lundgren).

He re-created himself as a memorable turn as Chubbs Peterson in the Adam Sandler movie in “Happy Gilmore.”

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.