Carl Weathers may have sadly left us … but his “Toy Story” role will live on in the Disney franchise with help from Ernie Hudson, TMZ has learned.

Production sources tell us … the “Ghostbusters” icon has been cast as Combat Carl, the character played by the “Rocky” legend, who died last year at 76.

Combat Carl is the G.I. Joe-type action figure toy line in the TS universe … and after his unforgettable role in “Predator,” it made perfect sense that CW fit the mold (pun intended)!

As you likely recall … the beloved actor passed away peacefully last February while surrounded by loved ones — due to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

His death sent shockwaves through Hollywood, as few knew he was even ill since he was still working in high-profile projects, such as Disney’s “The Mandalorian.”

Combat Carl is clearly in good hands … Ernie being a stud in his own right after bustin’ all of those ghosts!

Rob Gronkowski won’t be spiking a headset on the New England sideline anytime soon … but if you ask him, the Patriots are better off with their current staff anyway!!

TMZ Sports caught up with Gronk and chopped it up about all things Pats … and he’s super excited about the direction of his old team this offseason.

Of course, New England brought back another franchise great – former linebacker Mike Vrabel – to take the reins … and Gronk thinks the team is making big moves.

A big part of what’s goin’ well in Gronk’s eyes is free agency – he shouted out the signing of Stefon Diggs as a particularly big move.

“It’s really good for the New England Patriots because they need that number one wide receiver,” he said.

But seeing a fellow player like Vrabel return to coaching isn’t inspiring Gronk … he said his life is “too good” to ever consider going that route.

“I’m just not made for that coaching life, I’ve seen what they go through. It’s one of the most stressful jobs I would say in America,” Gronkowski admitted.

But a few lucky athletes may have a chance to play for Coach Gronk someday … if he ever has kids!!

Canadian actress Peyton Kennedy was a young teen when she first played Kate — the shy sophomore at Boring High and A/V Club member — on Netflix’s drama “Everything Sucks” back in 2018.

Joining Kennedy included Sydney Sweeney as the jealous popular drama club student,  Emaline, Jahi Di’Allo Winston — also a member of the A/V Club — who falls in love with Kate, Luke, and Rio Mangini as Luke’s sarcastic and nerdy best friend, McQuaid.

You may also recall seeing Peyton on “Grey’s Anatomy,” “The Captive,” “American Fable” and “Lavender.”