Earlier this month, legendary actor Carl Weathers he died at the age of 76. Weathers was best known for his unforgettable role as Apollo Creed in the film Rocky franchise, as well as roles in Predator, The Mandalorian, Happy Gilmore, Jackson actionand many more, totaling over 75 films and TV shows over the course of his career.
While his role in Rocky wasn’t his first acting gig, it was certainly his biggest and the one that made him a household name. His Rocky co-star and writer of the film Sylvester Stallone I recently sat down Tonight’s show with Jimmy Fallon (via CinemaBlend) and we talked about Weathers’ audition and why his brash presentation got him the role. Stallone said:
“It was magnificent. Rocky was a collection of really great actors, some were born to play those parts. And I couldn’t fill it [Apollo Creed role]because it required athleticism, intelligence, spirit, talent, speed. [Carl] he had everything. I mean, she had it all. But the best thing was the first day he came to read. In reality it was night and we didn’t know what to do anymore because we couldn’t find anyone. They had taken him off a Piper Cub to Oakland, because she lived in Oakland. And at that time she was still playing for [the] Oakland Raiders at linebacker, so you know he’s in shape. He walks in and says, “Oh God, this better be good.” And like, he was in a bad mood. And I say, “Great, check.” Bad mood. I like that. Great voice. He’s coming towards me.’ Then we read and he says, “Oh my God, if I could get a real actor, I could act.” “That loser is Rocky.” … And then I got up, and [he] he literally took his shirt off. And I thought, “Oh my God, I’m in trouble.” Because I looked a little like Pooh Bear at the time. I did it and it looked like Adonis. And he shot me about three times in the forehead, and I said, ‘[Groans] Hired.'”
It’s a pretty crazy audition story! And it was a big turn for Weathers to come forward in a hot and aggressive manner to the people that he wanted to hire him, but in this particular case, he paid off and created a great story.
by Jessica Fisher
Source: Geek Tyrant
Lloyd Grunewald is an author at “The Fashion Vibes”. He is a talented writer who focuses on bringing the latest entertainment-related news to his readers. With a deep understanding of the entertainment industry and a passion for writing, Lloyd delivers engaging articles that keep his readers informed and entertained.
