In a surprising development, Hollywood icon Sylvester Stallone has reportedly pulled out of a major upcoming project, citing creative differences with fellow actor Robert De Niro. According to sources close to the situation, Stallone made the decision to exit the project after finding De Niro’s behavior and political stance to be “too woke and creepy.”
The two actors, both legends in their own right, were set to collaborate on a highly anticipated film that was expected to bring together their decades of experience in the industry. However, tensions reportedly arose behind the scenes, with Stallone growing increasingly frustrated over what he perceived as De Niro’s overly political and socially conscious attitude, which he allegedly felt was infiltrating the creative process.
Stallone, known for his roles in action-packed franchises like *Rocky* and *Rambo*, has generally kept his political views more private, focusing on the entertainment aspect of filmmaking. De Niro, on the other hand, has become an outspoken figure in recent years, frequently criticizing political figures and championing progressive causes. This divergence in personal and professional philosophy seems to have created an irreparable rift between the two stars.
“De Niro’s just too woke for me,” Stallone reportedly said, according to an insider. “I want to make movies that entertain people, not preach to them. He’s taken things in a direction I’m just not comfortable with, and frankly, it’s gotten a little creepy.”
While Stallone did not elaborate further on what he found “creepy” about De Niro, the statement has caused quite a stir in Hollywood, with fans and industry insiders speculating on the extent of the clash between the two veterans. Some have pointed to De Niro’s intense political activism and willingness to incorporate social commentary into his work as possible reasons for the breakdown in their professional relationship.
This isn’t the first time Stallone and De Niro have worked together, having previously starred in the 2013 film *Grudge Match*, a light-hearted boxing movie that played off their iconic roles in *Rocky* and *Raging Bull*. At the time, their on-screen chemistry was praised, and there were no signs of tension. However, it seems that time and differing worldviews may have caught up with them.
The film’s producers are now scrambling to find a replacement for Stallone, with the project’s future uncertain in light of his departure. Fans of both actors are disappointed, as the prospect of seeing two Hollywood heavyweights on screen together again had generated significant buzz.
As for Stallone, he remains focused on other projects, including his ongoing work on expanding the *Expendables* franchise and a potential new action film in development. He has yet to make a formal public statement about his exit from the De Niro project but is expected to address the situation in the coming weeks.
De Niro, known for his legendary performances in films such as *Taxi Driver* and *The Godfather Part II*, has not responded to Stallone’s comments, and it remains to be seen whether he will address the controversy or continue his work unaffected.
This falling out between two of the biggest names in Hollywood highlights the growing divide in the entertainment industry, where political and social issues have increasingly found their way into the creative process, sometimes creating friction between artists with differing viewpoints.
