Sylvester Stallone reflects on Rocky 50 years later: ‘I am a lucky dog’

Fifty years after Sylvester Stallone's Rocky brought Hollywood's "underdog" to life, the Oscar-winning star still identifies with the character whom countless viewers see as an improbable success story. But Stallone no longer considers himself an underdog. "It would be so disingenuous to say you’re an underdog," he said during a recent Manhattan interview, from the penthouse of his luxury hotel penthouse. "Yeah. Come on. I am a lucky dog."

At 80, Stallone is among the most successful movie stars and filmmakers in history, generating billions of dollars from the Rocky, Rambo and The Expendables franchises. He continues to work, starring as mobster Dwight "The General" Manfredi in the Paramount+ series Tulsa King.

Stallone's memoir Steps, released last week, arrives just two months before Peter Farrelly's I Play Rocky, a semi-authorized fictionalized account of his life. The book chronicles his journey from Philadelphia's streets to the Oscars, evoking his character's rise from obscurity.

Stallone spoke warmly about his life, acknowledging that the road to success was fraught with difficulties and insecurity. "Everyone has issues and a lot worse than me," he said, emphasizing that his personal struggles helped shape his character. Despite his wealth and fame, he remains grounded, speaking in a "private street talk" that hints at his humble origins.

While reflecting on his past, Stallone admits reliving his early memories was challenging. "It was very hard because I spent 50 years burying that stuff," he said, describing the process as like uncovering a lost city. "It’s not pretty, but I didn’t want this to be 'woe is me.' Everyone has issues and a lot worse than me."

Despite his success, Stallone remains humble, attributing his fortune to fate and his own determination. He believes that insecurity is a powerful motivator, driving him to constantly improve. As for the impact of Rocky, Stallone sees it as a gift, tapping into something beyond his control that resonated with audiences worldwide.