In a sad turn of events, Hollywood has lost a talented and beloved actor. Carl Weathers, widely recognized for his iconic roles in the "Rocky" franchise and "The Mandalorian," passed away at the age of 76. According to reports, Weathers died peacefully in his sleep on February 2 at his home in Venice, California.

The actor's cause of death has been revealed as atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, according to his death certificate obtained by The Blast. Atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in the artery walls, can lead to the narrowing of arteries, impacting blood flow. The certificate further notes that Weathers had been battling heart disease for several years.

Weathers, born on January 14, 1948, gained immense recognition for his portrayal of Apollo Creed, the charismatic boxer, in the "Rocky" films. His performance in the original 1976 movie led to critical acclaim, winning three Academy Awards, including Best Picture. He continued to captivate audiences with his remarkable performances in subsequent installments of the franchise, forming a close bond with Sylvester Stallone's iconic character, Rocky Balboa.

Apart from his memorable role as Apollo Creed, Weathers also showcased his versatility in other films. He starred alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 1987 action hit "Predator," a film that gave birth to one of the most enduring memes in pop culture. In addition, he displayed his acting prowess by playing the character Greef Karga in the highly popular Disney+ series, "The Mandalorian," captivating audiences in nine episodes over three seasons.

The news of Weathers' passing was confirmed by his family in a statement released to ET. Describing him as an exceptional human being, the statement highlighted his contributions to film, television, the arts, and sports, leaving an indelible mark on the industry across generations. Remembered as a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend, Weathers' loss is felt deeply by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Carl Weathers is survived by his ex-wife, Mary Ann, and their two sons. His legacy will live on through his exceptional body of work, and he will forever be remembered as a talented actor who touched the hearts of countless fans around the world.

As Hollywood mourns the loss of this legendary figure, fans and fellow actors alike pay tribute to an extraordinary talent whose impact on the industry will never be forgotten.