Carl Weathers spent decades commanding the screen as Apollo Creed in the Rocky franchise, Action Jackson, and Greef Karga in The Mandalorian. Away from the Hollywood spotlight, public curiosity has long centered on his marital history. At the time of his passing in February 2024, Weathers was unmarried, having walked down the aisle three times previously. His romantic life included three marriages to Mary Ann Castle, Rhona Unsell, and Jennifer Peterson, followed by a long-term partnership with Christine Kludjian.
Understanding his personal history means looking beyond surface-level tabloid rumors. Each marriage marked a distinct chapter in the actor's life, spanning from his early days playing professional football in the NFL to his status as a seasoned Hollywood director and veteran performer.
Mary Ann Castle: The First Marriage and Family
In February 1973, Carl Weathers married his first wife, Mary Ann Castle. This union occurred just as Weathers was transitioning from a professional athletic career as an Oakland Raiders linebacker into the competitive world of acting.
During their decade together, the couple welcomed two sons, Matthew and Jason. Unlike children of many prominent Hollywood figures, Matthew and Jason chose to maintain low profiles away from media scrutiny.
The marriage lasted for ten years before ending in divorce in July 1983. Despite the split, this period laid the foundation for Weathers' stability as a young father while his breakout role in 1976's Rocky turned him into an international cinematic icon.
Rhona Unsell: The Longest Marital Chapter
Following his divorce from Castle, Weathers married his second wife, Rhona Unsell, in February 1984. This marriage represents the longest of his romantic commitments, enduring for over two decades.
During the late 1980s and 1990s—an era defined by his work in blockbusters like Predator and television projects—Unsell remained a steady presence beside him through various Hollywood shifts. While Unsell largely avoided heavy public exposure, the longevity of their twenty-two-year marriage stood out in an industry known for rapid relationship turnover. The couple ultimately divorced in 2006.
Jennifer Peterson: The Third Marriage
In 2007, Weathers married his third wife, Jennifer Peterson. Peterson, who worked in creative fields and occasionally appeared alongside Weathers at high-profile industry events like the Gold's Gym anniversary celebration, entered a relationship that faced swift challenges.
The marriage was short-lived. By 2009, just two years after tying the knot, Weathers and Peterson finalized a divorce citing irreconcilable differences. Following this split, Weathers remained officially unmarried for the remainder of his life.
Christine Kludjian: The Final Years and Partnership
In the years following his third divorce, Weathers found steady companionship with actress and producer Christine Kludjian. Beginning around 2014, the pair were frequently spotted together at red-carpet galas, industry awards shows, and cultural events, including the Golden Globe Awards.
Kludjian brought her own entertainment industry background to the partnership, having appeared in projects like The Chronicle, Escape Under Pressure, and Black Dawn. Though they never married, Kludjian remained his devoted partner through his later years until his death in February 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many times was Carl Weathers married?
Carl Weathers was married three times. His wives were Mary Ann Castle (m. 1973–1983), Rhona Unsell (m. 1984–2006), and Jennifer Peterson (m. 2007–2009). All three marriages ended in divorce.
Did Carl Weathers have children?
Yes, he shared two sons, Matthew and Jason, with his first wife, Mary Ann Castle. Both sons chose careers and lives outside the public spotlight.
Who was Carl Weathers' partner when he passed away?
At the time of his death in 2024, Carl Weathers' long-time partner was actress Christine Kludjian, with whom he shared a relationship starting in 2014.
Did Carl Weathers remarry after Jennifer Peterson?
No, after his divorce from Jennifer Peterson in 2009, Weathers did not marry again, though he maintained a long-term relationship with Christine Kludjian.
