1977: Sylvester Stallone on making ROCKY | Film 77 | Classic Movie Interviews | BBC Archive

Sylvester Stallone talks to Barry Norman about the arduous task of getting Rocky - his uplifting script about an underdog boxer - made into an Oscar-winning film. Chief among the issues was his desire to star as the film's lead Rocky Balboa, despite being a "small part" actor, while Hollywood studio bosses wanted a big name like James Caan, Burt Reynolds or Ryan O'Neal in the role. Like the film itself, the story of bringing Rocky to the screen is a tale of determination, perseverance and Stallone's uncanny ability to keep getting up after he gets knocked down.
BBC Archive looks forward to "Rocky on Venus".
Originally broadcast 23 January 1977.
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[@HK_Musician]

His actual life, creating that film himself and starring in it, and the success it had, is like a Rocky film. He actually is Rocky

[@LordLorenzo834]

Rocky is such a character he is almost real, especially the fact you can follow his life through the decades with the movies its pretty sureal

[@captaintoyota3171]

Yeah exactly. Like ppl all think of him as a action star roided out dunmy. But he is very intelligent and talented. Its a disgrace he never got an oscar even for copland

[@camerrill]

I saw Rocky when it first came out and watched it again once after years had gone by. I was very touched, even moved to tears, by what a compassionate guy he was and how intently he pursued his goals and his ethical life. What a great movie. Mr. Stallone, I LOVE your movies, though I confess it took my husband to help me break through my aversion to what I saw as gratuitous violence. You, Bruce Lee, and Arnold were always some of his favorites, and now some of mine.

[@DaPoopIsInDaPudding]

@@camerrill you mean screw your freedom Arnold??? Yeah, real hero. A damn good guy.

[@johnguilf9697]

Yo Adrian

[@KarimJovian]

The fact that he forced himself to be in the movie was probably the best move he ever made. Imagine him selling the film and moving on. We wouldn’t know what a Stallone is

[@Rzn8B58]

I for one am glad he did. Who would have taken Simon Phoenix down?

[@ClintScottFischer]

Amen Brother 🙏!!

[@GODsCHILD-lm6df]

#RockyOnVenus is what HE said... What a genius walking among us.... Some of us MISFITS become LEGENDARY.....

[@GODsCHILD-lm6df]

@GHOSTBUSTERS ЖЕНЯ 🇧🇾 what up, FAMILY! 🇦🇲✝️🇦🇲

[@peterscherba4138]

Yeah, the story is key and sly wrote it. In an original way.

[@landl190372]

I feel so sorry for Sylvester that people underestimate just how intelligent he is. He really does deserve so much more credit.

[@TroyBraiden]

I think most people know he's a smart and a great person. The people that don't realize that aren't very intelligent.

[@skelter1153]

Don't you realize that it was all necessary? We would have NEVER gotten 'Rocky' if Sylvester would have been just HANDED his celebrity status. If he wasn't underestimated, he wouldn't have been driven so hard to PROVE it. You heard what he said about opportunity not knocking on his door? Well, he did the knocking for himself and look at the gift he gave to the viewing public because he HAD to make his own luck. He is a Living Legend now because he struggled so hard, and SUCCEEDED. I get what you mean though, he was probably not treated very well when he first started trying to make his career.

[@party4keeps28]

I doubt he cares about those people who don't recognize his intelligence and accomplishments.

[@franksound6922]

I think he s a damn good actor far beyond „action movies“ too

[@sasazivanovic777]

@@TroyBraiden You nailed it!

[@LosHuxleys]

Sylvester Stallone is literally a genius. He wrote and starred the most important and influential saga in the history of sports movies.

[@bboy567011]

in the history of movies period!

[@danw1374]

That film was just perfect for its time.

[@bunchofrandomjunk]

He directed four films in that saga too

[@john26660]

It was no "Major League 3: Back to the Minors", but it was a decent little film.

[@Varganator]

Stalone admits it’s not a sport movie and he feels like to punch someone who say’s it. He claims Rocky is a love story about a broke fighter who trying to survive day to day life. Not to be rich or a champion.

[@natsyoutube]

The great calmness of long ago interviews. Giving people the time to talk, in a calm environment, and really listening to each other and having a conversation. Priceless ❤

[@johnre5342]

I was thinking the same thing…I think it was like this in the 1970s. Now we are accustomed to all this craziness we see on TV in modern times.

[@sabejreid2072]

Yeah no gotcha BS questions

[@godssara6758]

And no politics

[@magreger]

Dick Cavett interviews gave off the same vibe. I miss these times..

[@ReflectingonReflection]

@@johnre5342 exactly

[@younowhythatis6381]

I started boxing because of this man.40 yrs later,I'm a boxing coach,because of this man.i never achieved much in this life,but what I did achieve, was because of this man.thankyou brother.

[@skelter1153]

You achieved MORE than anybody who ever gave up on their dream, and that's A LOT of People. You deserve respect for that and you might not think you've achieved a lot but think about the influence you've had on those you've trained. THAT in and of itself is an achievement that knows no measure. God bless, and ALWAYS keep your hands up.🥊🥊 Cheers.🍻

[@fidelcatsro6948]

🐱👍🏿

[@antonboludo8886]

Boxing is a great sport, but Sylvester Stallone was never a boxer.

[@antonboludo8886]

The movie "Rocky" is not even about boxing.

[@adamb7233]

@@antonboludo8886 he never said he was lol 😂

[@Praetorian8814]

Its amazing how much this actually mirrors Rocky's attitude toward his first fight with Apollo. He didn't expect to win, but he wanted to show the world, and himself, that he could go the distance, and wasn't just a low class bum. Sly didn't know if he would star in his own script but kept pushing forward knowing that he'd have at least tried and *went the distance*

[@lexkanyima2195]

And he made it to the top

[@ptolemeeselenion1542]

Yep.

[@GODsCHILD-lm6df]

We 💓 Rocky and every underDAWG ....

[@followtheboat]

This interview is proof that the guy is a clever, astute and eloquent man. Stallone also came across well.

[@davidaston5773]

Just for that I've subbed to you. As for Sly? The one thing that has ANGERED me is the media and Hollywood portraying him either as an action hero or not very bright? This AFTER he wrote, produced and invested his own life into Rocky. The TRUTH? When you're watching "Rocky" you're essentially watching the bio of Sly's life leading up to making "Rocky" and the ending is a curious prediction of his own life and parallels Rocky's own fortunes. It connects with us so much because it was based on personal experience. And finally, I'd love to see Sly finally make his film about Edgar Allen Poe. THAT would be fascinating to see.

[@matimus100]

He didn't write nothing

[@garethjames1300]

Also ambitious which like it or not makes him selfish, self obsessed and cruel !

[@captainkirk4519]

What have you achieved in your life I wonder that surpasses what Stallone has achieved to qualify you to say that.

[@jamiew1664]

yes!!!!!!!!!

[@thomasmartinscott]

I saw "Rocky" and it literally changed my outlook on life! As a creative person (Songwriter/Multi-Instrumentalist) who had been told (by my own father), "You're never gonna be anything if you keep believing in some fantasy that can never come true." I had begun to believe my dad. I threw every bit of that out the window after seeing the Possibility that Rocky PROVED. I am now 72 and I made a living with my music for over 50 years. Thank You, Mr. Stallone!!!

[@thomasmartinscott]

@@alfa-psi Well, it would have been sad if I had FOLLOWED my fathers advice. He was also a Songwriter/Multi-Instrumentalist who DID follow his fathers advice, and spent his life working a job that he HATED, and died at 46 years old... Miserable!

[@Aquiori]

@@thomasmartinscott 🖤

[@thomasmartinscott]

@@Aquiori Thank you for that heart. I hope you will always follow your dream! Here is one of my Original Instrumentals that I just wrote and recorded last year. I am playing every Instrument. I hope it inspires you. God Bless You. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fWTUe4mDiZerq8k

[@Spiritualchick82]

That's really cool! Good on you for not believing what your dad said, and going after your dreams anyways. That is super awesome and I am glad you have been living a good life, doing what you love. 😊

[@paineintheass233]

Congrats on your life choice and success.

[@JackAlderton]

The way he talks is phenomenal. People cannot do this anymore. No ums or ahs, no awkward pauses. No teleprompter or swearing. Absolute class and powerful message we can all learn from.

[@JCopp1994]

His command of the English language is of a very high stature, if only more people shared his mastery of the language

[@infectioussneeze9099]

1:00 1:14 1:24 1:28 2:10 2:28 2:30 here's a uh counter for you. I'm not not gonna do the rest

[@salvambala7779]

​@@infectioussneeze9099yeah there's nothing wrong with saying um or ah😂

[@janielrin4471]

@@salvambala7779 according to the og commenter there is (ever tho there isnt 😑)

[@TheHutchIsOn]

Comments like this make me roll my eyes so hard. So youre saying that of the 7 billion people on earth (yourself included), nobody can speak without filler words? You can admire the past without shitting on the present

[@levivalentinovideos]

What an interview! You don’t see interviews on Tv like that anymore, so refreshing

[@bradavon]

Sadly not. Barry Norman let Stallone speak. The star is the interviewer now. It's so obvious you should let the interviewee speak.

[@andyhodgson7692]

Nice long answers. Norman lets him speak instead of interrupting and firing zillions of questions at him.

[@heresjohnny602]

@@bradavon Well Graham Norton has struck a perfect balance between having his own personality and getting the best out of his guests, conan O'brien isn't too bad when he's not pandering to the woke generation, Graham bensinger is another decent one who gets alot from his guests....there's a few decent ones still. 🤔

[@robertcooper5604]

Spot on

[@wallylosangeles4155]

Very True and Well said!!!😀👏👏👏👊👍

[@AngelFlores-bq4fd]

I don't think anybody can truly dislike the first Rocky movie. It's pretty humanly impossible.

[@whamsie4022]

Well, the whole eye-cutting thing.

[@FIXTREME]

@@whamsie4022 That's a mild annoyance,not A true dislike

[@eddierascalhaskell4954]

But I like Rocky III better tho. Sorry?

[@alexthomas2067]

@@whamsie4022 what was the eye cutting thing?

[@harold3165]

I hate it. Total garbage 😂

[@Owyourhurtingme]

Never judge a book by its cover. Stallone is a perfect example. At initial glance, Sly seems like a mook or a meathead, yet he wrote and starred in arguably one of the greatest films of all time.

[@electrominded8372]

He also writes blogs and books

[@greenvelvet]

I wonder where he learned the the craft of screenwriting and story structure?

[@fredwerza3478]

It's strange how so many Italian guys grow up in Jersey and just wanna be a mook in life --- but Stallone aspired to something higher and he achieved greatness --- American dream story!

[@spaniardsrmoors6817]

@@fredwerza3478 You've been watching too much Jersey Shore, those are stereotypes.

[@orangemanok5800]

He wrote Rocky in 3 days. Keep on punchin’, Rock.

[@ChipMyers1993]

This is such a great interview. It’s extremely hard to get something authentic like this now days.

[@mh1137]

Not hard, impossible imho. The format, the atmosphere, the quality of questions asked, the respect of silences which gave him the opportunity to really develop his mind... That's a masterpiece! Every journalist should watch and re-watch that! Huge respect to Sly. How many would have had the courage and tenacity he had... 99'9% would have sold the script. What he did was truly remarkable! Hats Off. He would have never existed as an actor if he sold it. He's Rocky. That's what made this movie exceptional. The trilogy is the best sport/fight movies ever made!

[@emilal]

It's actually much easier to find something authentic "nowadays". You have instant access to thousand of podcasts which all deliver the authenticity of old talk-shows.

[@Nike2141]

Stallone is one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet. I met him once by chance and he stopped what he was doing, shook my hand and genuinely paid attention to our brief but meaningful conversation. In the days of bomb movies with actors making tens of millions for lame rolls this man wrote and stared in one of the most iconic movies of our time for 20k…. Before the late 70s tax rate over 50%

[@billyrock8305]

Stallone is an articulate, gifted and artistic gentleman.

[@chrishansen9731]

Definitely. Man he was just a pup here lol

[@billyrock8305]

@@Wolflairhx1 Luck plays a huge part in every life.

[@kimdiez2681]

@@billyrock8305 Timing, not luck but skill.

[@billyrock8305]

@@kimdiez2681 Luck is gigantic in success. Seen dozens of times with millionaires who are clueless, but got it right once.

[@kimdiez2681]

@@billyrock8305 Sorry, i dont live by luck nor believe in it. Also I dont trust nor desire earthly riches, but Eternal Life thru Jesus Christ is my everything !!

[@muhammaduddin9268]

This man worked hard to get where he is.He deserves what he has achieved in life.He is a real definition of a real man.

[@dntlss]

Very well put.

[@brianregan75]

He was the epitome of the “working-class hero” in his humble beginnings. That’s why his Rocky character appealed to so many who strived to thrive not just survive. Eye of the tiger 😎🤩

[@sasazivanovic777]

No doubt.

[@samiuddinomer8154]

Wtf 🤷‍♂️

[@antonboludo8886]

I agree.

[@KNOWHOPE72]

Whenever Stallone is interviewed, it always amazes me what insight and wisdom he possess, even at the young age of 30.

[@jamesjameson4566]

True, people were smarter back then I think too

[@electrominded8372]

@@jamesjameson4566 They had more time to think over what was happening around them thanks to no internet and much fewer stupid distractions.

[@fredwerza3478]

@@jamesjameson4566 before the internet, peoples' attention spans were much longer and they thought about their words carefully --- now we live in an ADHD world where people just speak word salad nonsense

[@philipgates8693]

I’ve worked with people who were born in 1890 thru 2000. I find the older men slower in their speech, more articulate and thought-out, cautious with resources, more gentle. Modern mud-slinging is because we enlarged the size of the group, I.e. the internet.

[@leelunk8235]

@@fredwerza3478 FACT

[@adecentyoutuber7407]

This man truly inspired and saved so many lives for several decades in my opinion. The lessons and story of his own life and movies are second to none. Thanks, Sly!

[@scottandrewhorne4655]

100 percent FACT X

[@gsymmonds3487]

This. 👍👍👍❤️

[@AwakenedMan]

First time I've seen Stallone in an interview, he seems like a really good guy; bright, driven, ballsy, it's great someone gave him a shot as he clearly deserved it

[@tombox2759]

I lost 120 pounds because of Rocky. At age 62, by resting pulse is 47 with a BP of 106/67. I work out every day of my life and I weigh 178 for over 25 years.People think I am age 40. No medicines at all. Thank you Rocky !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@thore0007]

Great story!

[@scottandrewhorne4655]

God Bless You Amen xxxxxxx And God Bless Your Earthy Life Time And Earthly Family Amen xxxxxxx

[@rambopsychohn]

Thanks to Rocky I started out in sports

[@crazycatman5928]

I admire this mans commitment for his movie. The whole moralism and no cursing is something you rarely see or hear in movies nowadays.

[@rickjag4928]

Badass, right? I hadn't realized that, before. But, when I thought about it..."Yeah!" That's a cool mobe. The man has character and integrity. He kicked ass!

[@nerdbit84]

Agreed 100% with the OP. You don’t see many with this kind of class, determination, raw talent, and championing for moral values inserted in the industry today.

[@vladivanov5500]

@@nerdbit84 It's 'bigoted' to have moral values nowadays.

[@monkeyrun]

@@vladivanov5500 nah nowadays it's "woke" to have moral values

[@vladivanov5500]

@@monkeyrun Woke values are no values - it's "progressive"

[@duffymoony]

Sly is the real deal. Still quite humble in 2022. Love him.

[@mrskeltal3281]

yeah so humble he charges a thousand dollars for photos at his audience events

[@fidelcatsro6948]

@@mrskeltal3281 1000? wow!!

[@txmetalhead82xk]

He and Pacino.

[@ThePaulaon1]

​@@mrskeltal3281 Proof?

[@ThePaulaon1]

​@@fidelcatsro6948 Don't believe that nonsense

[@freaker126]

i love listening to stallone talk about his struggles more than his success. That's what people always forget about successful people.

[@lexkanyima2195]

One of the best

[@neilnola3520]

You can see how good a story teller he is and actually very funny and personable

[@mr.miller5041]

He could never have known when he was looking at himself in that mirror before going on set for the first time, that in the very near future he would be the most marketable actor on the planet for a few years. Sylvester Stallone reigned tall during that magical period of the beginnings and rise of the video recorder and home movies. His films contributed greatly to my extremely happy childhood. Thank you, Sly...

[@younowhythatis6381]

Amen to that.

[@TruthTime-bs9ni]

Absolutely correct 👍. A true hero in my life was RAMBO. I modeled myself after him from 19 to 30.

[@81chipper89]

Me too, he was a massive part of my childhood.

[@steven-vn9ui]

This is quality tv back when adults were in charge and people were educated and polite to each other.

[@emilfrederiksen.1622]

And not woke twitter idiots like now.

[@MikaelFresco]

incorrect

[@donahue2508]

@@MikaelFresco how

[@DesmondBotes]

I wish they still did quality interviews like this, genuine dialogue between two interested parties.

[@kennethrobinson2941]

It seems to be a lost Art

[@adrukova1407]

@@kennethrobinson2941 Many things are :(

[@Relugus]

@@kennethrobinson2941 It's striking how Norman simply let's Stallone talk. Alot of tv presenters make it about themselves.

[@joebowl8315]

Watch podcasts noob

[@Jayremy89]

@@Relugus or "the narrative"

[@bleensteen9331]

This is gold. You very rarely get to see a celebrity being real about how they got to where they got and how they feel about it, without extra marketing self promotion BS, JUST after they made the transition from nobody to somebody. This was only 2 months after the film's release.

[@chubbygallasso]

Rocky and Rambo .....2 absolute Icons ....what a man

[@glencarle1009]

This is why podcasts are so popular - they're the only time we really get to hear these types of conversations from famous people. The quality of this interview - taking the time to really let him form an answer and following up with other questions - is so far above anything that happens on talk shows today. And yet there is such an appetite for it.

[@angelwings7930]

The old talk shows were great. Merv Griffon, Mike Douglas, Carson, Dick Cavette.

[@Geraint3000]

Modern interview shows are simply vehicles for stars promote their latest movie and the TV presenter has signed agreements on what they can and can't ask.

[@FIXTREME]

@@angelwings7930 Don't forget Dick Cavett, for the love of god. Or Regis

[@FIXTREME]

@@angelwings7930 especially Regis

[@griseld]

It's a matter of time. In this hyper capitalist world TV's don't have the time to let guests express their opinions. That's why podcast episodes last hours, you could never have that on tv today. That's why they are popular.

[@Pulsonar]

Stallone is always his normal intelligent creative and passionate personality when interviewed by the best and most astute professionals in the industry. The interviewer is Barry Norman a legendary film critic from England, one of the most respected in the industry in that era. Stallone adjusts himself so skilfully to different levels of interviewers enquiring ability. He’s certainly no meathead, Stallone is a genuinely clever guy behind that he-man persona he plays so well on the silver screen.

[@ptolemeeselenion1542]

He indeed has a habit of code-switching from his normal intellectually gifted, collected passionate persobality to whatever is needed around (often the pseudo-Rambo facade) .

[@roberttilton7927]

Barry Norman was hell of an interviewer, he could always read the room.

[@jamesjameson4566]

And why not

[@RighteousBrother]

Not always......just ask Robert de Niro

[@Relugus]

@@RighteousBrother Yep he sometimes got into arguments or clashes, and with actresses he could fawn a little, but he was overall a very good interviewer.

[@richardbaron2948]

This is the ultimate rags to riches story, such an inspiration to anyone trying to do anything in life, have confidence in your ability and never give up. Stallone is such a legend.

[@jwallaby7895]

This is hands down one of the greatest personal testimonies I've heard from any actor/actress. I learned a lot about my own life, my creativity in music, my constant struggle with imposter syndrome, my lack of hope and faith in my own dreams. This was a real pick me up. Time to live my truth.

[@g_o_d_esigns]

Love this comment! 🌟

[@jimspencer363]

I love seeing the old interviewers like Barry Norman, Parkinson and Cavett, who ask a question then let the interviewee answer without interrupting or trying to be funny.

[@bradavon]

Me too. Its such an obvious idea just to let them speak without cracking a lame joke.

[@matimus100]

Covered in bling what nonsense is this

[@spencerd9325]

Here here

[@grantbangkok]

couldn't agree more .Just shut up and let the guest speak. Cavett was the boss, so too Parky

[@martinsmith8487]

Parkinson was odious

[@mr_786_xcx2]

What a fantastic interview, and such an intelligent guy. He persevered and never gave up. A true action star.

[@ericrivera1391]

Great interview with honesty

[@AKOthePERSIANkiller]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/qp3QgKJqqsSqY6M

[@nikhil8892]

An incredible man ❤

[@Tek-Knight5592]

Great interview. Damn he was so young here

[@nikhil8892]

@@Tek-Knight5592so good looking man 🔥

[@morrismarshall1575]

"Rocky" is such an inspiring, moving heart warming story about the human condition that everyone can relate to. Sylvester Stallone saw the value in that when few others did

[@craigarnold323]

2023, This interveiw showed me so much about Slyvester I didn't know, his depth, his work ethic. He's one of the few that really deserves every bit of his success. Cheers Sylvester!

[@hersheysfloyd]

Me too. December 2023

[@flipjupiter1]

Writer, director, and actor. The trifecta. Basically, what everyone in Hollywood wants to be. In every interview he is always so sharp. Dressed well. Clean cut. Clearly spoken. Fun. Smart. Sly is the GOAT!

[@nitram_nosnibor]

Sly is a very intelligent man. Very polite and respectful too.

[@joslynanderson5644]

Sylvester Stallone was definately switched on and way ahead of his time when he wrote that great script for Rocky what an absolutely iconic movie franchise that turned out to be ,and to this very day i train to the sound track love Sylvester Stallone nothing but respect for the guy .

[@harimadhavan1712]

Much more clever than most people realize and how the press portray him.

[@TheDarkKnight80]

That scene in rocky when he's laying in bed and saying he wants to see if he can go the distance he's gonna know for the first time in his life that he's not another bum from the neighbourhood wasn't just the movie metaphor, it was him in real Life too, he really meant that

[@Dan-jg7zl]

Love this. Wow, just how respectful they are to one another. Also, I love how Stallone is so casual and open he is when it comes to his bank balance. Looks very comfortable talking about money and how little he has. Nothing fake, just an honest guy. You rarely get this on TV today.

[@Seekaroom]

Indeed

[@crazyscarecrow8136]

How little he had* His weekly minimum pay for filming Rocky ($620) was over twice his monthly rent ($300). Adjusted for inflation, that $20,000 flat fee was worth over $100k today.

[@Longi1974]

Stallone comes across here as a very intelligent, friendly, warm and open individual. Great interview.

[@coolmacatrain9434]

This interview is an unbelievable eye-opener;' it shows in one short clip what an incredibly talented, honest, intelligent and driven man Sylvester Stallone was/is ..and just how plain and lazy a person I've been all my life. Depressing, if I'm honest

[@Dante-vf4sd]

Never too late to change, the now is all that matters, find something you don't mind doing and do it well.

[@AngelFlores-bq4fd]

I'm sure Stallone felt exactly like that at times as well

[@jamesjameson4566]

Ha ha true

[@aristotle_4532]

Most people are not responsible about how the approach long term goals, it was others that shaped them. Rocky belongs to a genre that is designed to inspire young people to set goals and put in the effort. Somehow, the author learned to do that at a young age and you didn't, but it is never too late.

[@STUPEEEEEEEEEED]

He's the best example how to be a star and a person. To add to his persona, he seems like a great dad, and also paints paintings. A truly a Renaissance man.

[@jeffn4836]

He paints paintings; you say?! Why; I’ve never heard of such a thing! How else would a painting come to be? Lol

[@barrybritcher]

A demolition man

[@kellrose817]

I love how he made sure his movie had strong morals that’s something we’re missing today!!!

[@gerardscott5815]

He's a seriously loveable character. The film Rocky I'm sure has changed lives and inspired people. I personally know a kid who now trains kids at his local boxing gym, and is a well made accountant, and it was watching the Rocky film as a kid steered him in the right direction.

[@jamiew1664]

He really shows how clever he is in this interview.

[@kitezzz360]

the frankness about money is something you just wouldn't see in an interview today. Also Sylvester is so incredibly humble here, it's so refreshing to see, true legend.

[@ytsm]

Man, Stallone deserves all the plaudits. He's as shrewd as they come. Great interview, too!

[@vantheman1238]

Sylvester still going strong and smashing it in 2022 on Tulsa King

[@АсланбекСалатов-м8х]

Great interview. Stallone is so well spoken and sincere.

[@toasterboy708]

What an absolute talent this bloke is. i can't think of anyone who has been propelled into stardom by the Hollywood machine in the last 20 years who is a patch on Stallone...

[@KermitHitler]

Errr, are you kidding? Heard of Arnold Schwarzenegger????

[@toasterboy708]

@@KermitHitler Arnie has been making movies since the 70’s, you donut.

[@justinhopper5941]

@@KermitHitler But Arnie came around way before 2002

[@KermitHitler]

@@justinhopper5941 So did Stallone!! Rocky was released in 1976 which made him a Hollywood star, well before Arnold gained stardom from Conan and Terminator in the early/mid 1980s

[@justinhopper5941]

@@KermitHitler Yes that’s right, but the initial comment basically means no one can compare to him in just the last “20 years”

[@robbiehoskins2468]

This man is quite simply an artistic LEGEND.

[@stephengiese7549]

Wow! He had to go to the bbc to give us the most revealing, insightful and brutally honest interview about himself and the rocky character I have ever seen or heard! I listened to this twice because I was totally awed by it! This is what an interview should be like! The Brits know how to interview! Thanks utube!

[@angelwings7930]

No he didn’t. Back then talk shows were great and I’m sure he was on US talk shows too.

[@stephengiese7549]

@@angelwings7930 I never saw him on any us talk shows!

[@angelwings7930]

@@stephengiese7549 I’m sure he was. I’d just do a search for it.

[@stephengiese7549]

@@angelwings7930 ok. I will search. Thanks.

[@armandodvs84]

“The money meant nothing. It was the opportunity.” Awesome words, brother.

[@sethcarey3619]

One of the best quotes I’ve ever heard.. “I wanted to fail on my own terms.”

[@JosephusAurelius]

Incredibly respect Stallone after this interview

[@Louis-ew8mx]

We need people like him now more than ever

[@stevel6943]

Every US Talk Show host take note...this is what an interview looks like

[@joedwyer3297]

@@January. no

[@mediocreman2]

*Every talk show host.

[@bwilson5401]

To be fair,there were some great American talk show hosts when this came out.

[@jessickalush3305]

Television is dead

[@villageintheshire]

What a breath of fresh air. The sentiments he expresses are timeless and his manner is genuinely modest.

[@justlamb]

He deserved everything that came his way, legend

[@johnjordan6032]

At the age of 42yrs, his last words hit me like a brick wall.

[@nightowl5475]

The movie wasn't really a boxing movie. It was an underdog type movie about an underdog type guy who gets his shot. It actually made Stallone and he really deserved it. He's a fantastic actor that has great charisma. I loved the movie he made called Copland. The movie did a lot for Philadelphia too.

[@lisacassar7040]

he ought to have won an #OSCAR for #COPLAND

[@pwareham61]

Copland is a great film, and Stallone played against type, and was excellent.

[@nightowl5475]

@@pwareham61 Yeah, sly was really good in Copland. He really is underrated as a fine actor.

[@Aaron-ze1io]

It was a love story about a man that just so happens to be a boxer.

[@moaningpheromones]

I loved the sequel rise and fall of buster douglas.

[@steveoshow4832]

This interview is fantastic on so many levels. A focussed and talented actor who in time become deservingly one of the biggest stars in cinema but also a successful writer, director & producer, the star symbol was never his goal, creating quality films was and still is. Barry Norman imo the best interviewer of his genre, disarmingly easy manner mixed with razor sharp knowledge of his guests and film. His father Leslie Norman, being a successful film writer, producer and director himself (directing Dunkirk no less) so it was in the blood. Thus with this wonderful interview you have two professionals who love the business and that’s what this captures besides the eloquence of asking intelligent questions and allowing the guest to answer in full. Perfection 😎👌

[@reekashade]

I just love Stallones humility & honesty a man of integrity,just like Rocky…he is no bum.

[@MadHatter1980]

Sly is a absolute genius. Still as humble today as he was then. A true role model. 👏🥊

[@digitalmagicAR]

It is remarkable how Rocky continues to capture viewers across the spectrum, from a 65 year old man to a 16 year old girl, the same in 2022 as it did in 1976. If you visit the "Rocky steps" in Philadelphia you will find teenagers and kids running up those steps, and they wouldn't even be born until decades afterward.

[@smudlicko]

I was running them too came all the way from Slovakia to do it, was crying in front of a statue too

[@goranbandic9387]

Fantastic comment 🤝

[@leonie.243]

The fact that I was like 13/14 when I watched the Creed films, and now that I have something to watch the Rocky films on, and with Creed 3 coming out, at the age of 19, I’ve finally watched all 5 Rocky films, and half way through the 6th one. I’m a girl too. 😂

[@dattzmusic]

@@leonie.243 What was your favourite one I wish I could watch them for the first time again lol

[@leonie.243]

@@dattzmusic That’s honestly a really hard question. I of course loved them all for different reasons. The first one was amazing as it wasn’t just about boxing, it was about a sweet and genuine guy that had unfortunately been given bad opportunities in life. But he slowly builds himself up, and forms relationships that help him grow further and leave this bad decisions behind. The second one was great because Rocky got ahead of himself, he just wanted to give Adrian and the new baby the best he could give, but he made poor choices which led to them being right where he first began. So he worked even harder to make sure he won this time round, not just last long enough. But the third one, I loved watching his relationship develop with Creed, it was great. And I liked seeing him be scared but admitting to it and then working even harder. I swear each film he works harder, and Rocky IV confirms that. What I like about the fourth one is that it focuses more on him training in a more humane and natural way, while Ivan Drago contrasts that with all the experiments and training in a lab. But the fifth one seems heavily underrated. I just love how it’s more grounded and focuses more on his family and relationships. And the ending was quite satisfying in my opinion. I really don’t know what to choose. I might have to go 1 just because that’s the true start of the underdog making it. But I think I have to say 4 then 5, I think?

[@JJShalashaska]

This man made himself from nothing, believed in himself even when he had nothing but his talent and intelligence, and at the end he succeded. He is a Legend.

[@ram2791]

Gives you an idea how good an actor he really is. He is so convincing as a low IQ or uneducated character that you see him that way. Then its a shock when you see something like this interview and realize he is actually an intelligent and articulate person.

[@thejerseyj5479]

Thank God he persevered and made Rocky. I love this movie for so many reasons. The characters, the locale, and the plot are just right for each other. And, it is as he said in this interview, a love story. The pairing of Adrian and Rocky is so beautiful and iconic and that really is, along with a street guys desire to achieve a dream, the essence of this movie. Thank you Sly, a thousand times.

[@mattmurdoch4345]

“I wanted to at least fail on my own terms” 🙏🏻

[@aclassmedicine3306]

Love Stallone's humour and what an inspirational film!

[@RoughTake]

Remarkable interview. These types of films and people sadly may never come again into the mainstream. Nothing but respect for this man.

[@paulrichardson9843]

Great interview. Barry Norman was a brilliant film critic - unpretentious, but knowledgeable. He clearly did his research about Stallone and didn't interrupt unlike so many of the interviewers these days who think it's all about them, not the celebrity/guest.

[@palerider964]

What a genius he is. His genius and acting are very, very underrated.

[@reckless74]

This interview demonstrates how intelligent and brilliant Stallone was and is! A very passionate and driven man!

[@trevorberridge6079]

Stallone acquits himself magnificently in this interview. To this day he shows the same self effacing humour and humility. And he was right to hold out for the part. The choreography was Meh! But the story was the important part. Great idea, well written on the whole and an iconic theme tune that became synonymous with boxing forever more. Incredible debut.

[@kennywilkinson913]

The theme tune "eye of the tiger" didn't come into the movies until the 3rd. 'Gonna fly now' was the tune to the 1st 2. Which is much better and maybe the one you was indeed talking about, I'm just digressing lol Have a good day

[@trevorberridge6079]

@@kennywilkinson913 Yes, 'Gonna Fly Now' was an instant boxing anthem. I'd say 'Eye Of The Tiger' became just as anthemic upon it's debut and is generally the better known tune. It was actually originally meant to be used in Karate Kid which had the same director.

[@kennywilkinson913]

@@trevorberridge6079 I was born 86 so growing up always thought eye off the tiger was the rocky tune and thats a great reply, think I remember hearing that somewhere but def will do now if I'm ever on that quiz for the million and this question comes up lol

[@djo-dji6018]

The choreography was spot on for the time and the intended audience.

[@joeychick9045]

What a refreshing interview. Sad how things are today.

[@marcryan1974]

Sly is the meaning of the “American Dream” Congratulations, sir 👍

[@JohnnyD5]

The innocence, love, and personal growth of both Rocky and Adrian is what makes the film so wonderful. He finally reaches for his full potential as a fighter and Adrian finally embraces her vulnerability and takes a giant leap of bravery for the opportunity to find love and actually live her life. So perfect

[@petel2551]

Loved this interview. Sly puts it across so well the parallels between the character he played and how this is a reflection of him. He could so easily have taken the money and given up on his acting aspirations but he wanted to follow his dream. Hats off to Sly.

[@MVerdoux]

Such a delight to listen to him speak. Charming, articulate and self-effacing. Would that he'd been given more credit for his considerable intellect (and more roles and projects to match.)

[@timegan1884]

Really good interview with an interviewer that asks interesting questions. Stallone is awesome. Barry Norman one of the best in his field.

[@alirezanabavian771]

It's amazing how smart and articulate he is...I am a highly educated engineer...have studied quantum mechanics . relativity ( special and general ) , an expert in digital and analogue electronics and so on....but this man amazes me in terms of wisdom and knowledge he possess...where dose it come from....more power to him..and my hats off to you sir Sylvester

[@thomaswillans4085]

Sylvester Stallone has inspired countless people to believe in themselves. What an incredible legacy!

[@Endthenonsense]

I didn’t realize he was that articulate. I guess because all I remember from over the years is “Yo Adrian!”

[@キラキラくりくり頭]

There are so many stories about Rocky and the lack of budget that I love. For example, the thing about "the got my shorts wrong" for the painting... That actually happened - and they didn't have the money to get it fixed. The ice rink scene was supposed to be full of extras - but they didn't have the money. So it was just him and Adrian, but it made it so much better. Also, he went on the rink in his shoes because he genuinely couldn't skate.

[@brucemeyer7244]

He saved some many kids hopes from the 70's to today. When I was down I showed his movies. He was main reason I join the USMC

[@RAGING_MIRAGE]

Brilliant interview. This guy is a genius

[@ichrisho]

What a fantastically well spoken genius.

[@matejbuki5661]

Ironically how he made an "old fashion" movie back in 77 and it still holds on today.

[@crod279]

Love him. I recently did an A\C retrofit job at his old place in Miami. He hasn’t lived there for some time now but just walking around the place was freakin amazing. The place has his style and touch everywhere. After going thru the huge double doors, the house is very secluded and hidden. Very cool experience. Has that 80s feel to it. Master bedroom has silk Walls overlooking the pool and the ocean that can be seen through the forest.

[@vivek27789]

I thought he left California to live in Florida recently?🤔

[@dermotspollen]

He's a great guy and intellegent too. To write a script and be able to get it through the studio gates even is impressive

[@shaunbat5097]

Great interview! From a kid to this day Rocky 1+2 and First Blood are my favourite films can't ever see them being topped. This man had extreme dedication and a great rags to riches story it is.

[@peter6914]

As an aspiring filmmaker these old Stallone interviews are really inspiring/motivational

[@Sword-of-Christ-Ministries]

What I personally find amazing is that the media in the states, where I'm from, has managed to obscure how intelligent Mr, Stallone really is. Well spoken , decently educated, as well as a decent actor. They sure did a great job of making him seem as though he was a layman..