Sylvester Stallone's Franchise Problems and the Likelihood of Two Sequels

Sylvester Stallone's Franchise Problem

Sylvester Stallone, the iconic action star, has been facing franchise problems in recent years, which may lead to the development of two highly anticipated sequels. Stallone's departure from certain major projects has left fans speculating about the future of his iconic roles. However, his open schedule may pave the way for the creation of new installments in his most beloved series.

Sylvester Stallone as Barney Ross in Expen4bles

Stallone's best movies include a number of iconic action flicks, many of which are part of larger franchises. His career has been built on such projects, but recently, he seems to be stepping back from all that. Given Stallone's current approach to franchises, viewers are left to wonder what's next for the 77-year-old actor.

Sylvester Stallone as Rocky comforting Michael B. Jordan as Donnie in Creed

Stallone's upcoming releases include several movies in pre-production, such as Little America, Hunter, and Armored, which is expected to debut in 2024. The actor's slate of upcoming projects doesn't include any of his typical franchise fare, suggesting he's moving away from those sorts of releases. Of course, the fact that he has an open schedule means that he can finally work on two sequels for major series.

Sylvester Stallone as John Rambo preparing his crossbow in Rambo: Last Blood

Sylvester Stallone's Departure from Major Franchises

Stallone has built his career on massive action franchises, but recent years have seen him letting go of such roles. The Expendables movies, among Stallone's biggest and best, faced a major setback with the actor passing the baton to the next generation of characters. His role in the fourth installment was noticeably reduced, and he's not expected to show up in further sequels, which will likely focus on characters other than Barney Ross if they happen.

Rambo (Sylvester Stallone) points his arrow at someone in Rambo 3

Stallone is also known for the Rocky movies, which eventually led into the Creed series. While he reprised his role as Rocky Balboa in the first two Creed films, he didn't return for 2023's Creed III. His absence in Creed III leaves the door open for Rocky to return in a potential Creed 4.

Sylvester Stallone poses as John Rambo in Rambo 2008

Stallone's franchise struggles could prove that the actor still needs the role of Rocky Balboa, the part that catapulted him to stardom. Even if Stallone doesn't reprise his role in Creed 4, another Rocky sequel is possible now that he's finished with projects like The Expendables. There are many reasons Rocky 7 can still happen, including the fact that Stallone already planned the sequel's story.

Sylvester Stallone shooting an arrow in Rambo First Blood II

The Potential for New Rambo Installments

If Stallone's franchise problems leave him with an open schedule, it could also give the actor the time and desire to make Rambo 6. Although another Rambo movie isn't currently in the works, there's certainly still a demand for more adventures in this world. Even if Stallone himself doesn't star in Rambo 6, the franchise could continue and involve the actor in a creative capacity.

Sylvester Stallone shooting a gun while shirtless in Rambo

Given his experience as a writer, director, and producer, Sylvester Stallone would be the right person to choose a new direction for the Rambo franchise. Whatever happens, it's far more likely a Rambo 6 will happen now that the actor isn't working on other major projects.