Sylvester Stallone

ABOUT

Sylvester Stallone, born Michael Sylvester Gardenzio Stallone on July 6, 1946, is an iconic American actor, screenwriter, and filmmaker. He rose to worldwide fame through his portrayal of the titular character in the "Rocky" series, which started in 1976. Stallone is also well-known for his role as John Rambo in the "Rambo" series and has cemented his legacy in Hollywood as a symbol of determination, grit, and resilience. Over his career, Stallone has been synonymous with action-packed films and often portrays characters who battle against overwhelming odds.

BEFORE FAME

Stallone was born in the Hell's Kitchen neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City. His father, Frank Stallone Sr., was a hairdresser and beautician, and his mother, Jacqueline Labofish, was an astrologer and promoter of women's wrestling. Due to complications during his birth, Stallone's lower left side of his face is paralyzed, giving him his trademark snarl and slightly slurred speech.

Stallone's interest in acting surfaced during his college years when he studied drama at the American College in Switzerland and later at the University of Miami. Before making it big in Hollywood, Stallone struggled to make ends meet and even took on roles in softcore pornography films, infamously appearing in "The Party at Kitty and Stud's" (later renamed "The Italian Stallion" after he achieved fame).

TRIVIA

• Stallone wrote the script for "Rocky" in just three and a half days.
• "Rocky" won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 1977, and Stallone received nominations for Best Actor and Best Original Screenplay.
• He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2011 for his contribution to the sport through film.
• Stallone has directed several films, including "Rocky II," "Rocky III," "Paradise Alley," and "The Expendables."
• He was once voted "Manly Man of the Year" by Harvard's Hasty Pudding Theatricals in 1992.

FAMILY LIFE

Stallone has been married three times. His first marriage was to Sasha Czack in 1974, with whom he had two sons, Sage Stallone (who died in 2012) and Seargeoh Stallone. His second marriage was to actress Brigitte Nielsen from 1985 to 1987. In 1997, he married Jennifer Flavin, and they have three daughters: Sophia, Sistine, and Scarlet. Stallone is very close to his family and often shares his experiences and wisdom with his children.

ASSOCIATED WITH

Throughout his career, Stallone has worked with numerous notable figures in the film industry. He co-starred with Carl Weathers in the "Rocky" series, Talia Shire as Adrian, and Burt Young as Paulie. In the "Rambo" series, character actor Richard Crenna played his commanding officer and mentor.

Stallone also teamed up with other action legends such as Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bruce Willis, and Jason Statham in "The Expendables" series. He has been widely recognized for his contributions to the genre of action films and continues to inspire actors and filmmakers with his relentless drive and creativity.

Stallone remains an enduring figure in cinema, known for bringing intense physicality and emotional depth to his roles, while continuing to influence and shape the film industry.