Why Stallone is Conquering TV at 78—And Loving Every Minute of It

At 78, Sylvester Stallone is continuing to shine in a leading role on Tulsa King, a decision that might surprise some, given his illustrious film career, particularly in action-packed franchises like Rocky and Rambo. But his ongoing commitment to the role of Dwight “The General” Manfredi in the hit crime drama series suggests a deeper personal and professional fulfillment. As the series continues into its third season, with a fourth already in the works, Stallone’s involvement goes beyond his role as an actor—he’s also an executive producer, having a hand in shaping the series’ creative direction.

A Role That Offers Creative Fulfillment

For Stallone, Tulsa King presents an opportunity to explore a new kind of character—one that resonates deeply with his own personality. Unlike the tough-guy persona that has defined much of his career, Dwight Manfredi is a more nuanced, even humorous, figure. Stallone has mentioned in interviews that he enjoys adding personal touches to the character, tweaking scripts, and ad-libbing lines to better reflect his natural cadence. “People think after Rocky that I’m a little impaired… What you see as Dwight is what you see right now. This is who I am,” he shared in an interview with Variety, emphasizing how playing Dwight feels like a more authentic expression of himself.

The role of Dwight, a New York Mafia capo exiled to Tulsa, allows Stallone to show a lighter, more relatable side, which he finds “refreshing.” This creative freedom is something Stallone has described as the “missing piece” in his career, giving him a chance to bridge the gap between his iconic past roles and a new, more relatable character. It’s this creative fulfillment and personal connection that likely fuels his ongoing commitment to the series, especially at this stage in his life.

A New Challenge in Television

Tulsa King represents Stallone’s first leading role in a scripted television series, marking a significant departure from his decades-long career in film. While the transition from the big screen to TV is notable, Stallone has stated that he finds filming for television to be both more demanding and time-consuming than making movies. He has openly acknowledged that the extended production schedules and longer seasons of television offer a new challenge that excites him, providing a chance to engage with a different rhythm of work.

At 78, continuing to work in this new medium speaks to Stallone’s desire to remain active and relevant in a changing entertainment landscape, particularly as streaming platforms like Paramount+ provide more opportunities for veteran actors. The ongoing success of Tulsa King likely strengthens his commitment to the project, ensuring he stays in the public eye and continues to contribute to the evolving TV industry.

Success of the Show and Industry Recognition

The success of Tulsa King has certainly played a role in Stallone’s decision to stick with the series. The show’s viewership has been impressive, with the Season 2 opener breaking records and averaging over 10 million households over 35 days, an 8% increase from the first season. This strong performance, coupled with positive critical reception, likely reinforces Stallone’s sense of investment in the show’s future. With the series renewed for a third season in March 2025 and the possibility of a fourth, Tulsa King provides Stallone with a stable and promising long-term project—something that may be especially appealing as he continues to shape his career.

Financial Considerations and Job Security

Stallone’s involvement in Tulsa King isn’t just creatively rewarding; it also makes financial sense. According to reports, the actor’s pay has risen substantially since the show’s first season, with Stallone earning over $1.5 million per episode in Season 2, a significant increase from his initial $750,000-per-episode salary. This kind of financial incentive, coupled with a guaranteed commitment to the series through seasons 3 and 4, ensures job security and a steady income stream for Stallone—an important factor at this stage of his career.

The Right Role at the Right Time

At his age, the role of Dwight Manfredi in Tulsa King offers a more suitable alternative to the physically demanding roles of his past, which often required intense stunts and physical exertion. While Dwight is still a tough, seasoned gangster, his character’s focus is more on development, dialogue, and interpersonal dynamics, rather than on the physical demands that were once the hallmark of Stallone’s action-packed career. In a 2022 interview with CBS News, Stallone reflected on how his acting approach has evolved, noting, “When you’re younger, it’s like, when in doubt, shout. But when you get older, there’s just gravitas,” emphasizing a shift toward roles that leverage his experience and presence rather than his physicality. This makes Tulsa King a perfect fit, allowing him to continue to showcase his talents without the same physical toll of previous roles.

Conclusion: Stallone’s Lasting Impact in Television

At 78, Sylvester Stallone’s decision to continue starring in Tulsa King reflects a combination of creative fulfillment, financial stability, and a desire for new challenges. The role of Dwight Manfredi offers Stallone the chance to embrace a new, more relatable persona while staying active in the entertainment industry. The success of the show, coupled with his ongoing financial and creative investment, underscores his continued relevance in Hollywood. As he enters the later stages of his career, Stallone’s involvement in Tulsa King serves as a reminder of his ability to evolve as an actor and contribute meaningfully to the world of television, marking an important chapter in his storied career.