FanDuel, sports betting company hires late ‘Rocky’ star Carl Weathers for next movie Super Bowl LVIII Commercialends up “adjusting” the ad amid the actor’s untimely death.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Carl Weathers,” a FanDuel spokesperson told the Post in a statement Friday. “Throughout his life, Karl was an iconic talent who had a profound impact on those with whom he worked on and off screen.”
“Fanduel was fortunate to have the opportunity to work with him during the Super Bowl campaign,” the statement concluded. “We honor the grieving families and are adjusting our campaign accordingly.”
A teaser for a new FanDuel ad shows Weathers, 76, as an Apollo Creed-style coach helping NFL legend Rob Gronkowski, 34, prepare for the company’s “Kicks of Destiny 2” event. He is appearing in a role.
Former tight end Gronk will attempt a field goal in Sunday’s Super Bowl for the second year in a row, and fans who bet on FanDuel’s sportsbook will have a chance to win a combined $10 million.
He failed in that attempt last year.
somewhere else 30 seconds of FanDuel teasea distraught Gronk is walking alone in the desert when Weathers stops his bike and urges him to continue practicing his kicks.
“And you can’t miss this time. Come in,” Weathers tells him.
With about a week until the Super Bowl, it’s unclear whether FanDuel will continue to run the ad as planned or if it will modify the ad to honor Weathers in some way.
The newspaper has reached out to Gronkowski’s representatives for comment.
Weathers’ family announced his death in a statement Friday. deadline“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Carl Weathers. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, February 1, 2024.”
“Karl was an extraordinary human being who lived an extraordinary life,” the statement said. “Through his contributions to film, television, the arts and sports, he left an indelible mark and is known for generations around the world. He was a beloved brother, father and grandfather. , partner and friend.”
His acting career spanned more than 50 years and included numerous notable television and film roles, including the first four “Rocky” films, “The Predator,” “Happy Gilmore” and “The Mandalorian.”
“Happy Gilmore” co-star Adam Sandler remembered Weathers on one of his shows. instagram tribute on friday.
“A true great. Great dad. Great actor. Great athlete,” Sandler said of Weathers.
“Always so much fun to be around. Smart as hell. Loyal as hell. Funny as hell. Loved his sons more than anything. What a guy!! Everybody loved him. My wife and I… We had the best time every time we met him, his love for all his family, and Carl will always be known as a true legend.”
Weathers is survived by two sons and a grandson.
