Fifty years after the release of "Rocky" (1976), Sylvester Stallone continues to reflect on the film that launched his career and became an enduring symbol of the underdog’s triumph. Speaking recently from a luxury hotel penthouse in Manhattan, Stallone acknowledged the irony of once identifying as an outsider while now recognizing his own good fortune. "It would be so disingenuous to say you’re an underdog," he said. "Yeah. Come on. I am a lucky dog."

Stallone, who turned 80 in July, has built a prolific career as both an actor and filmmaker. His work on franchises such as "Rocky," "Rambo," and "The Expendables" has generated billions and cemented his status in Hollywood. He remains active in the industry, currently starring in the Paramount+ series "Tulsa King" as Dwight “The General” Manfredi.

Reflecting on the early days of “Rocky,” Stallone described a period marked by uncertainty and hardship. Despite limited acting experience, he convinced United Artists to produce the modest story of a journeyman boxer’s chance at the heavyweight title, and to cast him in the lead role. The film defeated notable competitors such as "Taxi Driver" and "All the President’s Men" to win the 1977 Academy Award for Best Picture. In his recently published memoir, "The Steps," Stallone recounts his challenging upbringing as an unwanted child and the persistent doubts he faced during the film’s production, fearing his career might end before it truly began.

Stallone spends much of his time at his estate in Palm Beach, Florida, living with his wife, Jennifer Flavin. He spoke in a warm, conversational tone about his unlikely path and the factors that shaped him. Last year, he was honored at the Kennedy Center, with former U.S. President Donald Trump presenting the award. Stallone, who has been politically independent, previously called Trump "the second George Washington," though he has donated to both Republican and Democratic campaigns and advocated for stronger gun control measures. He also expressed opposition to offensive military actions, including war with Iran, emphasizing the nobility of simply striving to survive amidst adversity.

When asked why he chose to write his memoir, Stallone said he initially hesitated because of the emotional toll. “It was very hard because I spent 50 years burying that stuff,” he explained. However, he felt compelled to share the story behind the film’s inspirational power. “If everything was really nice, maybe I wouldn’t be here. If I didn’t have that insecurity which drives us... Insecurity is a great motivator.”

The actor also remarked on how this sense of insecurity motivates many successful individuals, including himself. Though he does not need to begin working on lines for "Tulsa King" for another month, he rises early each day to study his dialogue thoroughly, viewing this discipline as essential to his craft.

Despite the iconic status of "Rocky," Stallone said he rarely watches the film in full. He noted the generational gap between himself and younger viewers, who recognize the character’s story rather than his personal journey. For Stallone, the ongoing cultural resonance of "Rocky" represents an unexpected but welcome legacy.

Adding to this narrative, a semi-authorized, fictionalized feature titled "I Play Rocky," directed by Peter Farrelly and starring Anthony Ippolito, is set to premiere in November. The film chronicles Stallone’s unlikely rise to stardom. Stallone praised Farrelly’s work and the young actor’s performance, acknowledging the unusual experience of seeing a movie made about his own life while he is still alive. "Usually they do this when you’re dead and gone," he remarked. Farrelly approached the story as a human journey distinct from the fictional triumph of "Rocky," offering audiences insight into the real-life struggles behind the celebrated film.