Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone, two iconic figures in the world of action movies, had a rivalry that “got out of control” during the 1980s and 90s. The competition between them was fueled by the release of their movies nearly back-to-back, leading to an intense battle for supremacy. In a recent episode of “The Graham Norton Show,” Schwarzenegger shared insights into their Hollywood rivalry, revealing that it went far beyond the screen.
Schwarzenegger confessed that their rivalry extended to various aspects of their lives. Both actors were determined to have the best physique, outdo each other in terms of on-screen kills, and wield the biggest guns. Their competitiveness knew no bounds, and they went to great lengths to derail each other’s success. The intensity of the rivalry was evident, and it seemed that they genuinely disliked each other, as Stallone mentioned in a Forbes interview.
However, their relationship took an unexpected turn when Schwarzenegger and Stallone both invested in Planet Hollywood. This business venture brought them together, forcing them to set aside their differences and work as partners. They embarked on a journey to promote their joint investment, and during their travels, they discovered a newfound camaraderie. The shared experiences paved the way for a transformation in their relationship, as they became “inseparable.”
Despite the fierce competition and personal animosity, Stallone acknowledged that their rivalry played a significant role in shaping their careers. The actors believed that they were pioneering a unique genre that had not been seen before or since. Stallone credited Schwarzenegger as the superior actor when it came to action roles. He admired Schwarzenegger’s physical prowess, noting that his character always seemed invincible, while he often found himself getting beaten up on-screen. Stallone marveled at Schwarzenegger’s ability to come out unscathed from any fight, jokingly suggesting that he could even defeat a dragon and return with just a Band-Aid.
In the end, their rivalry led to an unexpected bond. The shared experiences of competing and ultimately working together helped them overcome the animosity they once felt towards each other. Stallone and Schwarzenegger’s friendship transcended their professional lives and became a genuine connection. They supported each other throughout their careers, and their enduring friendship serves as a testament to the transformative power of shared experiences.
The intense rivalry between Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone during the 1980s and 90s was a result of their competitive nature and the constant clash of their movies in theaters. However, their investment in Planet Hollywood brought them together, and they formed an unlikely but enduring friendship. Despite their differences, their collaboration and shared experiences helped them overcome their animosity and establish a lasting bond. Both actors have left an indelible mark on the action genre, and their rivalry-turned-friendship continues to be a fascinating chapter in Hollywood history.
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