Sylvester Stallone has opened up about the extreme measures he took for Rocky III. The actor said his obsession with his body became so intense that he developed bulimia and used steroids. The 80-year-old also reflected on the lasting physical toll of maintaining his action-star image. He now says those choices came at a significant cost.
Sylvester Stallone opens up about the extreme measures behind his Rocky III physique
In a wide-ranging New York Times interview, Sylvester Stallone discussed how his relationship with his body changed during the Rocky franchise. At first, he wanted the character to appear more athletic and aggressive.
However, that goal soon became an obsession. Stallone said the fixation eventually reached the point where he “became bulimic.”
While filming Rocky III, Stallone said his body fat dropped to 2.6%. He explained that maintaining the look became an “obsessive body-worship” situation. His comments also revealed the extent of his steroid use during that period.
When asked directly whether he took steroids, Stallone confirmed that he did. He said achieving and maintaining that type of physique naturally was unrealistic.
The actor also acknowledged the long-term consequences. Stallone said he has undergone multiple back, shoulder, and neck procedures after years of intense training and performing his own stunts.
His comments present a different perspective on the powerful image associated with Rocky. Stallone now views his body obsession as something that placed enormous strain on his health.
Earlier this year, Stallone also reflected on the demanding physical preparation behind the original Rocky. He said the work took months of repetition, training, and constant physical effort.
The actor later found some relief while making Cop Land. The role required him to abandon the ultra-fit image that had defined much of his career.
Looking back, Sylvester Stallone said he would approach things differently. His account of bulimia, steroid use, and body obsession shows how far he pushed himself for Rocky III and other action roles.
