Sylvester Stallone Opens Up About Reluctantly Leaving California for Florida: ‘I Owe It to Jen’

Sylvester Stallone, the legendary actor and filmmaker behind Rocky and Rambo, recently revealed his decision to leave California and make Florida his permanent home. In the second season premiere of his reality series The Family Stallone, streaming on Paramount+, the Hollywood icon shared that the move, while difficult for him personally, was a choice he made for his wife, Jennifer Flavin.

“No matter how I’m feeling, I owe it to Jen to go through this move,” Stallone said during the February 2024 episode. His words underscore the importance of compromise and mutual support in their nearly 27-year marriage. After a brief rough patch in 2022, when Flavin filed for divorce before reconciling the following month, the couple appears stronger than ever, with Stallone willing to uproot for his wife’s happiness.

Jennifer Flavin’s Desire for a Fresh Start

For Flavin, the move wasn’t just about changing scenery—it was about embracing a new phase of life. In an interview with Fox News Digital, she explained that with their three daughters—Sophia (27), Sistine (25), and Scarlet (21)—all having moved to the East Coast, she felt there was little left for her in California. “I just needed a change,” she said. “Life is short, so I wanted to make a change and not just be sitting in one house the rest of my life.”

Although rumors circulated that concerns over crime might have influenced the decision, Flavin clarified that crime was not a factor. Instead, the shift was driven by a personal desire for a fresh start. She expressed happiness with the move, citing new friendships, a different lifestyle, and the opportunity to create new memories.

A New Life in Palm Beach

The Stallones had already planted roots in Florida well before their permanent relocation. In 2020, they purchased a $35.38 million waterfront estate in Palm Beach. Since then, the home—complete with a pool, spa, and private beachfront—has been their official residence. Stallone, who earned his BFA from the University of Miami, has past ties to the Sunshine State, including a former home in Miami.

Jennifer’s wish to be closer to their daughters on the East Coast played a significant role. Two of the couple’s daughters now live in New York City, while the youngest, Scarlet, attends the University of Miami. This geographical alignment made the decision to move even more practical.

Adjusting to a New Chapter

As empty nesters, the Stallones are navigating a major life transition. The move from their longtime California home to Florida isn’t just physical—it’s symbolic of starting a new chapter. On The Family Stallone, Jennifer expressed her hopes for “new memories, new beginnings,” and her husband ultimately agreed. “She’s made an incredible amount of sacrifices over the years,” Stallone said, acknowledging the support Jennifer has given him throughout his career.

The public response has been warm, with even Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis welcoming the couple to the state. While Stallone admitted to missing certain aspects of California—particularly the weather—he emphasized that his kids are thriving and the family is embracing their new life. “I live in a wonderful community that’s really faith-based, great schools. There’s much more to Las Vegas than the Strip,” he shared during a 2023 interview on the Today Show.

Moving Forward Together

By agreeing to relocate, Stallone demonstrated that his relationship with Jennifer is built on understanding and partnership. The decision reflects not just a shift in location but a shared commitment to growing together as they embrace this next chapter in Florida. For the Stallones, the move isn’t just about leaving California—it’s about moving forward as a family.