FanDuel, the sports betting company that recruited the late “Rocky” star Carl Weathers for its upcoming Super Bowl LVIII commercial, will be “adjusting” the ad amid the actor’s untimely death.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Carl Weathers,” a spokesperson for FanDuel told The Post in a statement on Friday. “Throughout his life, Carl was an iconic talent who had a profound impact on the people he worked with on and off the screen.”
“FanDuel was fortunate to have had an opportunity to work with him during our Super Bowl campaign,” the statement concluded. “We are adjusting our campaign accordingly out of respect for the family during their time of grief.”
In a teaser for the new FanDuel ad, Weathers, 76, stars as an Apollo Creed-esque coach who helps prepare NFL legend Rob Gronkowski, 34, for the company’s “Kick of Destiny 2” event.
For the second year in a row, Gronk, a former tight end, will attempt to kick a field goal on Super Bowl Sunday, which gives fans who placed a bet on FanDuel’s Sportsbook a chance to win $10 million collectively.
He missed the attempt last year.
In another 30-second FanDuel tease, a distraught Gronk walks alone in the desert until Weathers pulls up on a motorcycle and urges him to continue practicing his kick.
“And this time, you won’t miss. Get in,” Weathers tells him.
With the Super Bowl nearly one week away, it is unclear if FanDuel will continue to run the ad as planned or modify it to honor Weathers somehow.
The Post has contacted reps for Gronkowski for comment.
Weathers’ family announced his death Friday in a statement to Deadline, writing, “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers. He died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, February 1st, 2024.”
“Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life,” the statement read. “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.”
The actor’s career spanned over five decades with numerous notable TV and film roles, including the first four “Rocky” movies, “The Predator,” “Happy Gilmore” and “The Mandalorian.”
His “Happy Gilmore” co-star Adam Sandler remembered Weathers in an Instagram tribute on Friday.
“A true great man. Great dad. Great actor. Great athlete,” Sandler said of Weathers.
“So much fun to be around always. Smart as hell. Loyal as hell. Funny as hell. Loved his sons more than anything. What a guy!! Everyone loved him. My wife and I had the best times with him every time we saw him. Love to his entire family and Carl will always be known as a true legend.”
Weathers is survived by his two sons and his grandchildren.
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