Sylvester Stallone
“Rocky” now has his own holiday
Sylvester Stallone and his wife Jennifer Flavin at the first “Rocky Day” in Philadelphia.
© imago/ZUMA Wire
Special holiday for “Rocky”: Sylvester Stallone gave an emotional speech in Philadelphia about the film that changed his life.
Of course, Sylvester Stallone was there to start the new holiday. With his wife Jennifer Flavin (55), the native New Yorker returned to Philadelphia, where he grew up. The Hollywood star was given the key to the city. Stallone also cut the ribbon at the opening of a Rocky shop that sells merchandise related to the film series.
“Never give up”: Stallone’s emotional speech
Sylvester Stallone stopped next to the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art according to media reports a speech. The 72 steps became world famous thanks to “Rocky” when the underdog boxer climbed them while training for his fight against champion Apollo Creed. Not only for Rocky, but also for his actor, the famous staircase scene changed his life, as Stallone now said: “When you reach the top, you feel inspired, you feel special, hopeful, happy and, above all, proud of yourself .”
“Life is a struggle,” Stallone continued in his speech. “You’ll win some and lose a lot,” the performer said of life’s struggles. “But true victory is never giving up and going to extremes for yourself and those you love. Never give up.”
Rocky Balboa’s story also mirrors that of Sylvester Stallone. He was an unsuccessful actor when he wrote the script about the underclass boxer who unexpectedly gets a shot at a title shot. Stallone sold his script short, but with the option to play the lead role himself.
“Rocky” became a surprise hit, winning three Oscars. Stallone was nominated for lead actor and screenwriter. Five sequels followed and a successful spin-off series with “Creed”.