Following his debut in the late 1960s, Sylvester Stallone featured in multiple movies and shows. However, it wasn’t until 1976 that his dreams of becoming a global star came true with the sports drama Rocky. The movie not only transformed his career but also showcased his physical prowess and potential as an actor.
While the film has since developed into a successful franchise, it has also had some unintended consequences on the actor, which he later opened up about during an interview.
Sylvester Stallone Claimed Rocky’s Success Changed Him
The 1976 film Rocky was a turning point for Sylvester Stallone. It was a huge hit making $225 million at the box office and winning three Oscars, including for Best Picture. However, during an on-stage interview at the London Palladium, the actor shared that the success of the film made him “insufferable.”
“I abused power badly,” he said as per BBC. Reflecting on his earlier interviews, Stallone expressed embarrassment about the shift in his behavior following Rocky’s success. “I read some of the interviews I gave now and wish I could go back and punch myself in the face,” he further shared. During the interview, he also recalled the incident that brought him back to reality.
The Sobering Moment That Grounded Sylvester Stallone
The success of the 1976 film Rocky brought Sylvester Stallone among the A-list stars in Hollywood. After it became a huge hit, he went on to star in two more films, F.I.S.T., and Paradise Alley, before reprising his role as Rocky Balboa in the 1979 film.
However, both movies failed to match the success of Rocky. During his interview at the London Palladium, he recalled leaving the set of Rocky II to attend the premiere of his 1978 drama Paradise Alley. However, he was surprised to see only two people in the audience.
“And one of them was asleep,” Stallone shared. While it was a moment of profound disappointment for the Expendables star, he acknowledged its significance in grounding him and providing a valuable life lesson.
He further shared that the incident was a “humbling experience” and “a good thing,” deeming it ultimately beneficial for his future into the stardom. The revelation also highlights the Oscar-nominated actor’s growth and self-awareness extending beyond the realm of cinema.