Sylvester Stallone at 80: On Rocky, Marriage, and His Legendary Career
Sylvester Stallone reflects on turning 80, the 50th anniversary of Rocky, his marriage to Jennifer Flavin, and his hit series Tulsa King in a candid interview.
At 80 years old, legendary action star Sylvester Stallone is busier than ever, reflecting on his iconic career, his upcoming projects, and his private life. In a candid interview, the actor admits that reaching this milestone came as a shock, though his extensive filmography serves as a constant reminder of the decades gone by.
Celebrating 50 Years of Rocky
This month marks the 50th anniversary of the premiere of Rocky, the legendary boxing drama written by and starring Stallone, which earned three Academy Awards. Reflecting on the character that catapulted him to global stardom, Stallone notes that he initially feared being typecast, but now embraces the enduring legacy. For the anniversary, director Peter Farrelly has released the biographical feature I Play Rocky, detailing Stallone's grueling struggle to get the film made.
Stallone shared his thoughts on the film, stating, I Play Rocky is an absolute sensation. What is fascinating is that the movie comes out at a time when the atmosphere in America is exactly like it was 50 years ago. Just like in 1976, people are looking for entertainment and a glimmer of hope.
Surviving Adversity and Maintaining Vitality
In his recent memoir, The Steps: A Memoir, Stallone opens up about his difficult childhood, marked by a fractured family and physical struggles. He also admits that his obsessive drive for a muscular physique led to eating disorders and steroid use during his career, particularly during the filming of Rocky III. Despite enduring multiple back surgeries, neck fusions, and severe injuries, he refuses to retire.
When asked about the secret to his vitality, Stallone credits his wife, Jennifer Flavin. The couple, who will celebrate 30 years together, starred in the reality show The Family Stallone. As Stallone humorously puts it, My wife keeps me healthy. She is the reason I am still alive. She is much tougher than I am; she can completely take me down.
Tulsa King and Working with Israelis
Stallone currently stars in the hit series Tulsa King, created by Taylor Sheridan, where he plays a mafia capo navigating life in Oklahoma. Describing the character, Stallone explains that he wanted to portray a gangster with a sense of humor to break away from traditional macho stereotypes. Production for the upcoming fifth season is already underway.
Throughout his career, Stallone has maintained close ties with Israel. In 1987, he filmed Rambo III in locations such as the Dead Sea, Eilat, and Jaffa, working alongside Israeli actors such as Sasson Gabay. He reflects fondly on the experience, noting that it was one of the last action films shot entirely with practical effects rather than CGI.
