Why Sylvester Stallone Walks With a Cane: The Real Story Behind His Health Struggles
Sylvester Stallone’s legendary action career has left its mark on his body. Recently spotted with a gold cane at a major event, the Hollywood icon opened up about the injuries and surgeries that have shaped his later years. Discover what’s really going on.
For decades, Sylvester Stallone has been the face of action movies, pushing his body to the limit for the sake of authenticity. But the years of intense physical roles and daring stunts have taken a toll, and now, the effects are becoming more visible. When Stallone arrived at the Kennedy Center Honors gala, fans noticed him leaning on a gold-plated cane, sparking concern and curiosity about his health.
Years of Stunts and Surgeries
Stallone’s commitment to realism meant he often performed his own stunts, even taking real punches in the ring for the Rocky films. Over time, this dedication led to chronic pain and a string of medical procedures. The actor has undergone eight back surgeries, with another one on the horizon. He’s been open about the physical price he’s paid, especially after a particularly severe injury on the set of The Expendables.
During a recent appearance, Stallone explained the story behind his cane. He shared that the damage from years of action roles, especially one brutal slam while filming The Expendables, changed everything for him.
I did stupid stuff. I was directing Expendables and, like an idiot, I’m doing take 10, take whatever, and I remember one slam and I could actually feel one bang… I never recovered from [Expendables]. After that film, it was never physically the same… So I warn people: ‘Don’t do your own stunts.’
The Expendables: A Turning Point
Stallone’s injury on The Expendables set wasn’t just another on-set mishap—it was a career-defining moment. Despite a long history of bumps and bruises, this particular incident led to a series of surgeries and lasting pain. He’s admitted that he’s never fully bounced back since that day, and it’s clear the years of pushing his body have caught up with him.
Even so, Stallone’s legacy as an action star is built on these physically demanding roles. The wear and tear from decades in the spotlight is now more apparent, but it’s also a testament to his relentless drive and passion for his craft.
Still in the Game
Despite the setbacks, Stallone isn’t ready to step away from the spotlight. While he’s no longer performing the high-risk stunts that defined his early career, he remains active in the industry. His recent work on Tulsa King has been well received, and he’s made it clear that retirement isn’t in his plans.
Stallone himself put it best:
Forget it. Because I don’t know the concept of retiring. I thought I did. Wouldn’t it be great to mow your lawn every day and chase bees off the roses or whatever you do? And I go, ‘No.’ I’m just not — I’m built for war. You know what I mean? Creative war.
With a new season of Tulsa King in the works, Stallone shows no signs of slowing down, even as he adapts to the realities of his health.