Sylvester Stallone is a name that echoes through the halls of Hollywood history, a living legend whose career spans decades of iconic roles and unforgettable stories. From the gritty streets of Philadelphia to the mafia-laden underbelly of Tulsa, Stallone’s presence on screen remains as commanding as ever. At 78, he’s not slowing down, delivering raw energy and charisma that keep fans glued to their screens. Let’s dive into the latest chapters of his storied career, focusing on his recent work in Tulsa King and the enduring legacy of the Rocky franchise, which continues to spark debates about its successor, Creed.
Sylvester Stallone’s Tulsa King Season 3: Devious Plans Unfold
The biggest buzz surrounding Sylvester Stallone right now is the ongoing production of Tulsa King Season 3, the Paramount+ crime drama that’s taken the streaming world by storm. Filming kicked off in March 2025 in Atlanta and Oklahoma, and Stallone is back as Dwight “The General” Manfredi, the New York mafia capo exiled to Tulsa to build a criminal empire from scratch. A recent Instagram post from Stallone, showing him in a sharp gold suit with a cigar in hand, has fans buzzing about what’s next for the slick-talking gangster. He teased “devious” plans alongside co-star Frank Grillo, hinting at a continuation of their shaky alliance from Season 2. While no official release date has been confirmed, reports suggest September 2025 as a likely premiere, a pleasant surprise for fans expecting a longer wait.
The show, created by Taylor Sheridan, has seen a shakeup with new showrunner Dave Erickson, known for his work on Mayor of Kingstown. This change promises fresh energy while maintaining the gritty charm that made the series a hit, with Season 2 boasting a perfect 100% on Rotten Tomatoes. Stallone’s chemistry with returning cast members like Martin Starr, Jay Will, and newcomers like Robert Patrick as liquor kingpin Jeremiah Dunmire sets the stage for explosive conflicts. Patrick, famous for his role as the T-1000 in Terminator 2, has teased a showdown with Stallone, referencing their past clash in Cop Land. Add Kevin Pollak as a vengeful FBI agent and Neal McDonough’s newly empowered villain, and Season 3 is shaping up to be a wild ride.
Why Creed Outshines Sylvester Stallone’s Rocky Favorites
Sylvester Stallone’s love for the Rocky series is no secret, with Rocky (1976) and Rocky IV (1985) often cited as his personal favorites. These films capture the underdog spirit and raw intensity that defined his career. Rocky introduced the world to the scrappy boxer from Philly, while Rocky IV delivered a Cold War-fueled showdown with Dolph Lundgren’s Ivan Drago. Stallone’s commitment to authenticity in Rocky IV was so intense that he instructed Lundgren to hit him for real, landing him in the hospital for nine days after a brutal uppercut. Yet, many argue the Creed series, which Stallone co-starred in and produced, surpasses these classics.
Creed shifts the focus to Adonis Creed, Apollo’s son, blending legacy with fresh storytelling. Michael B. Jordan’s nuanced performance and Ryan Coogler’s direction in the 2015 film brought a modern edge, earning critical acclaim and a new generation of fans. Unlike Rocky’s straightforward triumph, Creed explores identity, family, and redemption, with Stallone’s Rocky Balboa as a mentor rather than the star. The series’ emotional depth and cultural resonance give it an edge, though Stallone’s favorites remain timeless for their raw heart. Fans on social media are split, with some praising Creed for its evolution and others loyal to the original’s gritty simplicity.
What’s Next for Sylvester Stallone in Tulsa King?
As production rolls on, Tulsa King Season 3 is poised to elevate the stakes. The Season 2 finale left Dwight navigating a web of enemies, from biker gangs to the Chinese triad, and now new players like Beau Knapp’s volatile Cole Dunmire and Bella Heathcote’s mysterious role add fresh tension. Stallone’s recent posts hint at Dwight returning to New York, possibly to settle old scores or expand his empire. The addition of James Russo in a recurring role and the promotion of three cast members—Grace, Goodie, and Bigfoot—to series regulars signals deeper exploration of Dwight’s crew. With 159 million views for Season 2 and record-breaking engagement, Paramount+ is betting big on Stallone, reportedly securing him for a potential Season 4 with a hefty salary bump.
Stallone’s ability to blend humor, heart, and menace keeps Tulsa King fresh. He’s described Dwight as “quirky” and “kind,” a gangster with pizazz who’s unlike any role he’s played. Fans are eating it up, with posts on X calling Stallone’s reinvention at 78 “inspirational.” The series’ mix of action, wit, and Sheridan’s signature storytelling has made it a standout, even among his other hits like Yellowstone. As Stallone teases “things going sideways,” viewers can expect more of the chaos and charisma that define Dwight’s reign.
Rocky vs. Creed: A Legacy Battle
The debate over Rocky versus Creed isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about storytelling evolution. Stallone’s favorites, Rocky and Rocky IV, are raw, visceral tales of grit and glory. The original Rocky won three Oscars, including Best Picture, for its honest portrayal of a down-and-out fighter. Rocky IV leaned into spectacle, with Stallone’s real injuries adding authenticity to its larger-than-life battles. Yet, Creed offers something new: a story that honors its roots while carving its own path. Adonis’s journey resonates with younger audiences, tackling themes of legacy and self-discovery that feel universal.
Stallone’s role as a weathered Rocky in Creed earned him an Oscar nomination, proving his enduring power. While he cherishes the simplicity of his originals, Creed’s critical and commercial success—spawning three films and a devoted fanbase—suggests it’s the superior series for a modern era. Social media buzz reflects this, with fans praising Creed’s emotional weight while others argue nothing tops the original’s heart. As Stallone continues to shape his legacy through Tulsa King, his Rocky roots remind us why he’s a Hollywood titan.
What to Watch While You Wait
While Tulsa King Season 3 brews, fans can revisit Stallone’s classics. The Rocky series is streaming on platforms like Max, with Creed available on Prime Video. For something under the radar, check out Samaritan on Tubi, a Stallone-led superhero flick that’s gained a cult following. Seasons 1 and 2 of Tulsa King are on Paramount+, perfect for catching up on Dwight’s rise. Stallone’s also got projects like The Epiphany and Hunter in the pipeline, but for now, his Tulsa reign and Rocky legacy keep fans hooked.
What’s your take on Sylvester Stallone’s Tulsa King or the Rocky vs. Creed debate? Drop your thoughts in the comments below and let us know if you’re Team Rocky or Team Creed! Stay tuned for more updates on Stallone’s next moves, and don’t miss Tulsa King Season 3 when it hits Paramount+.