Sylvester Stallone

Sylvester Stallone (also known as Sly Stallone and the Italian Stallion) was born on July 6, 1946, in New York City. Over a career spanning more than five decades, the actor, writer, and filmmaker became a defining face of modern action cinema, earning major honors including a Golden Globe and multiple Oscar and BAFTA nominations.

After years of hustling for roles, Stallone broke through in 1976 as Rocky Balboa in Rocky, a phenomenon he also wrote. The performance made him one of the rare artists recognized by the Academy for both acting and screenwriting in the same year, and the character’s underdog spirit powered sequels including Rocky II, Rocky III, Rocky IV, and Rocky Balboa.

He expanded his legend as battle-scarred soldier John Rambo, beginning with First Blood and continuing through Rambo: First Blood Part II and Rambo III. A Hollywood Walk of Fame star followed, and his 1980s–90s run made him one of the era’s biggest box-office draws.

Stallone later revived his signature roles and helped launch ensemble action with The Expendables, while Creed brought renewed acclaim for Rocky as a mentor. He has also appeared in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 and Vol. 3 and headlines the series Tulsa King.