Sylvester Stallone, famed action star and creator of iconic roles like Rocky and Rambo, confessed to his daughters Sophia and Sistine on their podcast "Unwaxed" that he grappled with intense self-doubt and felt ashamed during his career drought in the early 2000s.
"I felt like I'd hit rock bottom," Stallone, now 77, shared. "I was so incapable, so useless." The producer and actor, who enjoyed widespread acclaim in the 70s and 80s, struggled to secure acting gigs amidst a series of poorly-received films, such as "Get Carter," "Driven," "Avenging Angelo," and "D-Tox."
His daughters recalled that their father, now indistinguishable from the larger-than-life protagonists he once portrayed, spent days engrossed in movies, seeking solace in the world of cinema.
Stallone's downslide mirrored personal challenges. His complicated relationship with his parents, especially his abusive father, influenced his scripts and personal dynamics. The death of his son Sage, who passed away due to heart disease in 2012, left an indelible mark on the star, who described it as an "agonizing loss" that would stay with him forever.
The father-daughter trio – Stallone, Sophia, and Sistine – has a history of open discussions. Stallone's protective and sometimes intimidating demeanor made dating complicated, leading to standoffs with her daughters' romantic interests.
However, the hardships served as a catalyst for Stallone's introspection. He acknowledged putting work before family and made amends, prioritizing quality time with his loved ones.
The Rocky legend regained his footing by reprising his iconic role in the fourth Rocky film in 2006, attributing his growth to the challenging phase of his life. He remained a cinephile, gaining joy from new movies, especially ones introduced by his kids, despite his struggles.
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Insights: Stallone's self-doubt and shame stemmed from his professional and personal setbacks, relationships, and the challenges that came with being a famous father. Despite his struggles, he used the period to reflect, learn, and strengthen his bond with his family.
