February 2, 2024
Los Angeles – Directors Guild of America (DGA) President Lesli Linka Glatter made the following statement today upon learning of the passing of long-time DGA member, Director Carl Weathers:
“Today we mourn the loss of a great hero to the DGA and the entertainment industry. The world may have seen Carl as an iconic actor, but here at the DGA we knew him as an accomplished television director on series like The Mandalorian, Chicago Med, and Law & Order, but more importantly to us, as an exceptionally dedicated leader of the Guild for the past 20 years, always seeking to improve the lives of his fellow members. His service to the DGA was as broad and as deep as his wonderful booming voice – bringing his heart and soul to every volunteer effort.
Whether serving on the Western Directors Council or as an alternate to the National Board, leading the charge as Co-Chair of the PAC Leadership Council, donating his time to the Directors Guild Foundation to aid fellow directors in need, fighting for fellow members a part of five BA/FLTTA Negotiating Committees, serving as a former Co-Chair of the Guild’s African American Steering Committee or by encouraging aspiring directors through his support of the DGA’s Student Film Awards, Carl always found ways to give back and participate, while showing grace and kindness to every person he encountered. Though his passing leaves a void, Carl's legacy lives on through the talent he nurtured and the lives he brightened. We are grieving this tremendous loss alongside his family and friends, as we celebrate Carl's outstanding humanity, compassion, and heart. Carl’s kindness and wisdom will be incredibly missed, and we are deeply saddened because he touched so many lives and meant so much to us here at the Guild.”
GUILD SERVICE
Weathers joined the Guild in 1995 and was elected to four terms as an Alternate member of the National Board from 2003 – 2017. He served nine terms on the Western Directors Council from 2003 to present. Since 2003, Weathers was also the Secretary of the Directors Guild Foundation. Beginning in 2005, Weathers participated on five Negotiation Committees. He served as Co-Chair of the DGA’s PAC Leadership Council for more than five years, was a Co-Chair of the Guild’s African American Steering Committee from 2009-2011 and provided guidance on the Website Advisory Committee and Reality TV Committee.