This veteran Hollywood star encountered rejection both in his career and at home. However, he overcame these hardships and revealed the one powerful factor he believes “saved” his life.
Growing up in a household lacking affection and encouragement, this celebrity endured emotional neglect from his parents. Despite these difficulties, he persevered and rose to become a highly successful and respected figure in the entertainment world.
The celebrity’s father married multiple times, adding three more children to the family—Bryan, Carla, and Dante, who was born in 1997. Carla and Bryan choose to keep their lives private.
The actor’s early life experiences profoundly influenced him, causing him to become isolated and struggle with building relationships. His mother’s remarks further highlighted the severity of this neglect.
This lack of affection and stability at home carried over into his school life. During his childhood, the actor was expelled from 13 different schools after constantly being told he didn’t belong.
His nontraditional behavior eventually led him to enroll in military schools, including those designed for troubled youth. He characterized his younger self as merely “adventurous.”
His struggles continued into adulthood when he hit rock bottom. When he arrived in New York City with very little money, he was forced to sleep in a bus station since he couldn’t afford housing.
As he pursued acting opportunities, he feared being stuck as a “professional extra” since he “didn’t fit a certain mold” or the image of a traditionally handsome leading man.
The actor, who openly discussed having plastic surgery, explained that nerve damage from birth left the left side of his face partially paralyzed. Later on, substantial weight loss led to sagging on that side of his face, which he chose to correct with surgery.
He noted that people often misunderstand the scar but expressed no judgment toward plastic surgery. The actor commented, “Why not do it? You have body work done on your car.”
In those tough times, he depended on just one coat to withstand the harsh New York winters. In an interview, he reflected on its significance, “That coat saved my life.”
That steadfast determination eventually propelled him to remarkable success. Today, Sylvester Stallone—whose father passed away at 91—is recognized as one of the most iconic action stars and is widely celebrated for his legendary “Rocky” franchise.
Sylvester Stallone, circa 1972 | Source: Getty Images
The pressure to uphold his athletic image became so overwhelming that he steered clear of sports like golf and basketball. Additionally, Sylvester faced harsh criticism for his acting, which culminated in 2000 when he was awarded a Razzie for Worst Actor of the Century.
Sylvester Stallone, as Rocky Balboa, kissing a dog in a still from the film “Rocky,” circa 1976 | Source: Getty Images
He has been married three times, with his first marriage to actress Sasha Czack in December 1974.
Sylvester Stallone at the “Rocky” press conference and special screening on November 20, 1976, in New York City | Source: Getty Images
The couple divorced in February 1985 but had two sons together, Sage and Seargeoh, with the latter being diagnosed with autism.
Sylvester and Sage Stallone in a scene from “Rocky V,” circa 1990 | Source: Getty Images
Tragically, the devoted family man later lost his eldest son, Sage, who died from a fatal heart attack at the age of 36.
Sage and Sylvester Stallone at the “Rocky V” West Hollywood premiere on November 30, 1990, in California | Source: Getty Images
Sylvester found love once more when he married actress Brigitte Nielsen in December 1985.
Sylvester Stallone in “Rocky” on November 20, 1976 | Source: Getty Images
However, their marriage was brief, ending in divorce by July 1987.
He is currently in his third and longest marriage with model Jennifer Flavin.
Sylvester and Sage Stallone with Jennifer Flavin during the inauguration of the Planet Hollywood restaurant on November 25, 1995, in Marne-la-Vallée, France | Source: Getty Images
They married in May 1997 and went on to have three daughters: Sophia, Sistine, and Scarlet Stallone.
Sylvester Stallone, Jennifer Flavin, and Sophia and Sistine Stallone at the season 1 premiere of “Tulsa King” in New York on November 9, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
Although they briefly filed for divorce in August 2022, they reconciled and decided to stay together. They have now been married for 27 years.
Sylvester Stallone and Jennifer Flavin at amfAR Las Vegas Presented By Paramount on November 22, 2024, in Las Vegas, Nevada | Source: Getty Images
His journey proves that even the toughest beginnings can pave the way for remarkable success./By
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