When Stallone Walked Away From Creed IV — And Why
After playing Rocky Balboa for nearly 50 years, Stallone shocked fans by refusing to appear in Creed IV.
He said: “I’m not coming back… because I don’t own Rocky.”
Despite creating the character, Stallone had no rights over the franchise.
The studio pushed him out — and gave creative control to others.
“It’s a painful subject,” he admitted.
Stallone believed Rocky was being turned into something he didn’t recognize.
He called the move a “regretful” betrayal.
That wasn’t a contract dispute — that was a fight for his legacy.
He&;d still do CREED IV with Michael B. Jordan "if other fellas are not involved" Stallone stated.