Sylvester Stallone Recounted Filming Rocky at Bellagio
The veteran actor discussed his 1977 career breakthrough during a recent appearance in Las Vegas.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Celebrities
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Sylvester Stallone visited the Bellagio for the Drink Las Vegas event this weekend, where he shared behind-the-scenes details about the production of the 1977 Oscar-winning film Rocky. The 80-year-old actor described falling ill after filming a kissing scene with co-star Talia Shire.
Why it matters
The appearance highlights the enduring legacy of the film, which Stallone wrote, as production continues on the biographical film I Play Rocky. The project, directed by Peter Farrelly and starring Anthony Ippolito as the younger Stallone, is already being positioned for an Oscar run.
Stallone, now 80, reflected on his 1977 debut in a film that earned Oscar recognition. His current career focus includes the production of I Play Rocky, which is expected to contend for similar awards.
The players
Sylvester Stallone
The 80-year-old actor and screenwriter wrote and starred in the 1977 film Rocky.
Talia Shire
The actress co-starred with Sylvester Stallone in the 1977 production of Rocky.
Peter Farrelly
The director is currently leading the production of the film I Play Rocky.
Anthony Ippolito
The actor portrays Sylvester Stallone in the upcoming biographical film I Play Rocky.
The details
Stallone told the Las Vegas audience that he contracted the flu while filming a scene for the original movie after his co-star, Talia Shire, displayed symptoms including a runny nose and coughing. Despite the contact, he chose to finish the scene as filmed. Production is now underway on the biopic I Play Rocky, directed by Peter Farrelly, with Anthony Ippolito cast to portray the star.
Timeline
1977 marks the original theatrical release of Rocky.
September 2026 was the date of the Drink Las Vegas event at the Bellagio.
Beyond the Strip
Stallone's reminiscence adds personal context to a career long defined by his 20-year rivalry with Arnold Schwarzenegger. This latest project marks a departure from that competitive dynamic, focusing instead on the cinematic history of the 1977 Rocky release.
Fans tracking the production of I Play Rocky can look for upcoming reports on the film's development. No further public appearances by the production team in the Las Vegas Valley have been scheduled at this time.
The takeaway
Stallone's story serves as a reminder of the practical realities and unexpected setbacks often hidden behind iconic cinematic scenes. Watch for news regarding the official release and award season prospects for the upcoming I Play Rocky production.
Further reading
For more on notable entertainment figures and their valley appearances, visit the Celebrities section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Page Six.
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