Sylvester Stallone’s 2026 Project Surprises Fans: Not Rambo or Rocky

When the conversation turns to classic action films of the 1990s, one name inevitably stands out: Sylvester Stallone. Before he became synonymous with tough-guy roles, Stallone was an actor facing hardship, teetering on the edge of giving up. It was during this period that he penned the script for Rocky, a move that would alter the course of his life. Recently, Stallone offered a glimpse into his creative journey, sharing a video on social media that charted the evolution of his writing career.

From Action Icon to Author

Stallone’s career has been defined by a string of successful franchises, from Rambo to The Expendables, and he has always maintained a hands-on approach to the stories behind these films. Now, he is preparing to release a memoir entitled The Steps, which is set to become one of his most significant undertakings in 2026.

Despite his reputation as a screen legend, Stallone has never considered himself a natural writer. The idea seems almost absurd, given his pivotal role in creating Rocky in 1976—a film that not only launched his career but also spawned numerous sequels and the successful Creed spin-off. Yet, Stallone has openly admitted to doubting his abilities as a writer.

Persistence Over Talent

In a recent post on his Instagram account, Stallone displayed a collection of scripts—some produced, others not—that he keeps in his office. He reflected on the dual nature of writing in his life, describing it as both a source of anguish and achievement. He remarked,

I’m not a born writer, I never was a good writer, but persistence pays off. And eventually, these words led to Rocky.

His dedication to the craft was so intense that, at times, he isolated himself from the outside world to focus on his work. The result was a film that would go on to win three Academy Awards, a testament to his determination rather than any innate literary gift.

‘The Steps’: A Glimpse Behind the Curtain

Stallone’s forthcoming memoir, The Steps, promises to offer an in-depth look at his creative process over the years. The book will explore his approach to projects such as Rambo and The Expendables, highlighting the ways in which he contributed to their development. Scheduled for release on 5 May 2026, the memoir will chronicle the journey of a man who, through sheer willpower and resilience, carved out a place for himself in the world of cinema.

Readers can expect insights into the methods and mindset that propelled Stallone from obscurity to international stardom. The memoir will also shed light on the steps he took to overcome obstacles and achieve his ambitions.

Legacy of Two Cinematic Milestones

For those interested in the impact of Stallone’s most famous works, here’s a brief overview. Rocky, directed by John G. Avildsen and starring Stallone alongside Talia Shire, Burt Young, and Carl Weathers, boasts a Rotten Tomatoes score of 93% from critics and 69% from audiences, with box office earnings of $117 million. Rambo: First Blood, directed by Ted Kotcheff and featuring Richard Crenna, Brian Dennehy, and Bill McKinney, holds an 86% rating from both critics and viewers, and grossed $125 million.

Both films are currently available to stream on AMC+ in the United States. Will you be picking up Stallone’s upcoming memoir? Let us know your thoughts below.