Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone are two of the most iconic action stars in Hollywood. They have appeared in some of the most successful action movies of all time. The two stars at a time were known for their intense rivalry. The 1980s were the peak time when one could experience the ferocious competition between these stars. Despite their rivalry, one can see the duo together on several big-screen projects. The two superstars may have been rivals once, but their hearts are filled with each other’s admiration presently.
Sylvester Stallone On Arnold Schwarzenegger
Stallone is known for delivering hits like the Rambo series, Cobra, Tango & Cash, Creed, and much more. The Creed star in an interview revealed that the rivalry between him and Schwarzenegger was genuine. Stallone also marked the competitive nature that is common between him and The Terminator star. The Rambo star clarified that the two of them now share a healthy friendship.
“We really disliked each other immensely because we were… this may sound a little vain, but I think we were pioneering a kind of genre at that time and it hasn’t been seen since really. So the competition, because it’s his nature, he is very competitive and so am I… and I just thought it actually helped, but off-screen we were still competitive and that was not a healthy thing at all, but we’ve become really good friends.”
Arnold Schwarzenegger Expresses His Admiration For Sylvester Stallone
Both Schwarzenegger and Stallone have moved on from their past and have entered together in a bright future with a positive relationship. The duo can be seen working together, keeping all their past differences aside. Both the stars worked together in The Expendable series and Escape Plan. The Terminator star revealed that he wouldn’t have worked in The Expendable series if the Rambo star wasn’t there. Schwarzenegger also added the genuine reason for leaving The Expendable series.
“There is no ‘Expendables’ without Sly. I would never do the movie without him, no. You know, I think the first and second ones were terrific… But, the third one, I thought my part was not written well… I didn’t believe that I had any value in the movie. I love the franchise, by the way. I think it’s a spectacular franchise. I think that Sly has good ideas, what he wants to do with it, and I think if they write a really good script [in] which my part is very well-developed, I would do it. If not, then I won’t do it.”
Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone may have had a longstanding rivalry, but their loyalty to each other during the making of The Expendables franchise shows that professional relationships can transcend personal differences. The success of the franchise is a testament to the enduring popularity of the action genre, and the chemistry between its ensemble cast has undoubtedly contributed to its success. Despite their differences, both actors have had successful careers in Hollywood and continue to be two of the most recognizable and beloved action stars in the industry.
Source: Forbes; Vanity Fair
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