How Dolph Lundgren REALLY Feels About Sylvester Stallone
Dolph Lundgren and Sylvester Stallone share a complex yet enduring relationship that has evolved over decades of collaboration in Hollywood. From their iconic roles as adversaries in Rocky IV to co-starring in The Expendables series, their dynamic has encompassed both camaraderie and conflict. (Dolph Lundgren Recalls Wanting to Punch Sylvester Stallone on Set)
In a 2023 interview on In Depth with Graham Bensinger, Lundgren recounted a particularly tense moment on the set of
The Expendables (2010). During filming, Stallone, who directed the movie, harshly criticized Lundgren in front of the entire crew and international press, leading to multiple retakes of a scene. Lundgren described feeling humiliated and emotionally distressed, to the point of considering leaving the production. However, Stallone later approached him to apologize, and they resolved the issue amicably. Lundgren reflected on their relationship, likening it to a familial bond with its ups and downs, and emphasized his lasting respect and affection for Stallone . (Why Dolph Lundgren wanted to punch Sylvester Stallone on set of ‘The Expendables’ – AS USA, Dolph Lundgren Wanted to ‘Knock Out’ Sylvester Stallone on ‘Expendables’ – Business Insider, Dolph Lundgren Recalls Wanting to Punch Sylvester Stallone on Set)
Their professional rapport has seen its share of challenges. In 2022, Stallone publicly criticized plans for a Drago spin-off, expressing concerns about the potential exploitation of the Rocky franchise. Lundgren responded by clarifying that there was no finalized script and that he believed Stallone was involved in the project. He reassured fans that he had been in touch with Stallone and that their relationship remained intact . (Dolph Lundgren reassures fans “Drago” won’t break “Rocky”, says he’s ‘in touch’ with Sylvester Stallone)
Despite past tensions, Lundgren and Stallone have maintained a strong professional connection, collaborating on multiple projects over the years. Their ability to navigate conflicts and continue working together speaks to a mutual respect and a shared history that has withstood the tests of time and the pressures of the film industry.
