Sylvester Stallone’s comments about why Rocky won’t be returning for Creed III actually show exactly why the Rocky franchise’s future is safe. Sylvester Stallone shot to stardom with his leading role in 1976’s Rocky, with his place at the forefront of the franchise securing him as one of the biggest stars of the 1980s. Stallone is responsible for Rocky Balboa’s status as a pop culture icon in more ways than one: not only is he the face of the character, but he’s also the creator, writing, producing, and directing numerous movies in the Rocky franchise.
The Rocky franchise shifted focus in 2015 with Creed, with Michael B. Jordan’s Adonis Creed – the illegitimate son of the late Apollo Creed – taking center stage as the franchise’s new protagonist. Both Creed and Creed 2 heavily featured Rocky as a supporting character, as the former champion became Adonis’ trainer. However, Stallone has publicly announced that he will not be returning for Creed III, indicating that the franchise will begin to distance itself from its roots.
Stallone’s reasoning for not appearing as Balboa is actually sound, and though it may seem disappointing, it’s actually an encouraging sign for the franchise’s future. Stallone says [via Metro] that he “didn’t know if there was a part for [him],” adding that “it takes it in a different direction.” Stallone’s comments hint that the decision was a mutual one: that he “bow[ed] out” because he didn’t believe Rocky fit within the film’s story. This shows that though the movies of the Creed franchise have already honored Rocky’s legacy, the character isn’t being treated as a necessity for their success. This will ultimately allow Creed III (and future sequels) to move out from Rocky‘s shadow – seemingly with Stallone’s blessing, no less.
Both Stallone And Creed 3’s Writers Know That Rocky Is Finished
Stallone’s comments confirm that both the actor and Creed‘s writers understand a fundamental truth about the character: he can’t be around forever. By admitting that he didn’t feel there was a natural way to work Rocky into Creed III‘s story, Stallone proves that he understands the direction the franchise is heading: away from Rocky Balboa. The idea that the character is finished is hardly shocking, as Creed II honored the Rocky movies perfectly, subtly wrapping up the last of the loose ends from Balboa’s story.
Stallone confirming that Rocky will not appear in Creed III but that he wishes the franchise well for the future is actually something of a relief. If Rocky’s story was dragged out any further, it may begin to undermine the character’s happy ending. Creed II sees him reconcile with his son and meet his grandson, which is a quietly poetic way to wrap up the fighter’s story. Having faced his greatest regret – Apollo Creed’s death, for which he felt responsible – Rocky Balboa is free to enjoy a peaceful retirement with his surviving family.
It’s actually important that Creed III doesn’t need Rocky, because it shows that the franchise can survive beyond Stallone’s own career. As Rocky has actor as a mentor to Adonis Creed, the spirit of the Rocky movies is alive and well, and the torch has seemingly been passed. Stallone confirming this with his comments about Creed III is proof that the Rocky franchise is in safe hands for the future.
Key Release Dates
Creed 3
Release Date:2023-03-03
