Sylvester Stallone’s Gruelling Career: The Real Reason Behind His Cane

Few names are as synonymous with action cinema as Sylvester Stallone. His relentless commitment to physically demanding roles has long been admired, but it appears the years of punishing stunts and on-screen brawls have finally taken their toll. When he arrived at the Kennedy Centre Honours gala, the sight of him leaning on a gold-plated cane did not go unnoticed, prompting a flurry of speculation among fans and the public alike. Stallone himself has since addressed the matter, revealing a history of eight back operations, with yet another procedure looming on the horizon.

Stallone’s Stunt Work and Lingering Injuries

Stallone’s reputation for performing his own stunts is well established. From taking genuine punches in the Rocky series to enduring punishing action sequences, he has always thrown himself into his work. However, the injury that proved most consequential did not occur during his early classics, but rather on the set of The Expendables.

While directing and starring in the first instalment of the franchise, Stallone insisted on handling his own stunts. This dedication, though admirable, led to a particularly severe incident. He later reflected on the experience, stating:

I did stupid stuff. I was directing Expendables and, like an idiot, I’m doing take 10, take whatever, and I remember one slam and I could actually feel one bang… I never recovered from [Expendables]. After that film, it was never physically the same… So I warn people: ‘Don’t do your own stunts.’

The aftermath was not just a matter of a few bruises. The resulting injuries required multiple surgeries and left Stallone with chronic pain, a stark reminder of the risks involved in his chosen profession.

From Rocky to Tulsa King: A Relentless Work Ethic

Despite the physical setbacks, Stallone’s drive remains undiminished. While he may have retired from performing his own stunts, he has not stepped away from the spotlight. His recent success in the television series Tulsa King is testament to his enduring appeal and work ethic.

Stallone has made it clear that the idea of retirement holds little appeal for him. He remarked:

Forget it. Because I don’t know the concept of retiring. I thought I did. Wouldn’t it be great to mow your lawn every day and chase bees off the roses or whatever you do? And I go, ‘No.’ I’m just not — I’m built for war. You know what I mean? Creative war.

With a new season of Tulsa King in the pipeline, even in the absence of a showrunner, Stallone shows no sign of slowing down. His creative energy and determination to remain active in the industry are as strong as ever.

The Price of a Lifetime in Action

Stallone’s career has been defined by his willingness to push himself to the limit, both physically and creatively. The cumulative effect of decades spent in the action genre is now evident, but he continues to press on, undeterred by the challenges he faces. The gold cane, rather than a symbol of defeat, stands as a testament to a career built on resilience and an unyielding spirit.

The Expendables is currently available to stream on Peacock in the United States.