In a dramatic, memorable speech at Mar-a-Lago, Sylvester Stallone stirred headlines. He compared President-elect Donald Trump to two legendary figures: his iconic character, Rocky Balboa, and George Washington.
The actor made these bold statements while introducing Trump at the America First Policy Institute gala at the president-elect’s opulent Palm Beach estate on Thursday night.
Stallone began his speech by vividly describing the opening scene of his 1976 film, Rocky. The camera shows a wall painting of Jesus in a boxing gym, which was a converted church.
The scene features Rocky being pummeled as the words “Resurrection AC Club” hang in the background. Stallone used this imagery to draw a parallel between Rocky’s underdog journey and Trump’s political comeback, labeling Trump as a “mythical character.”
BREAKING: Sylvester Stallone just made a surprise appearance with President Donald Trump here at Mar-a-Lago! @A1Policy
— Jack Poso 🇺🇸 (@JackPosobiec) November 15, 2024
“No one could have done what this man has done. He’s the 2nd George Washington” pic.twitter.com/j8F53EVhvL
“A Mythical Character” and the “Second George Washington”
Sly didn’t hold back his admiration, saying, “We are in the presence of a really mythical character. I love mythology.” He continued, “Nobody in the world could’ve pulled off what he pulled off. So I’m in awe.”
The Rambo star was referring to Trump’s landslide 2024 election win over Kamala Harris. It shocked analysts and captured global attention.
Stallone then took the comparison even further, likening Trump to America’s first president. “When George Washington defended his country, he had no idea that he was going to change the world,” Stallone explained. “Because without him, you could imagine what the world would look like. Guess what? We got the second George Washington. Congratulations!” It was a jaw-dropping moment, with Trump’s supporters erupting into applause.
The speech wasn’t just about politics; it was a blend of pop culture and history. Stallone’s use of his famous character, Rocky, added drama to an already charged evening. Rocky is a symbol of grit and perseverance. He also referenced one of America’s Founding Fathers.
BREAKING 🚨 PRESIDENT Trump and Sylvester Stallone stun America. THIS IS FREAKING HUGE
— Marjorie Taylor Greene Press Release (Parody) (@MTGrepp) November 15, 2024
THIS IS WHAT WINNING LOOKS LIKE 🇺🇸
GET IN LINE 🔥 pic.twitter.com/DCbSdUAWSl
Trump and Stallone Share the Stage Amid High-Profile Attendees
Notable figures attended the event, including Tulsi Gabbard, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Elon Musk, and Tucker Carlson. After Stallone’s introduction, Trump took the stage. He shook hands with the Rocky star in a show of camaraderie.
Some of Trump’s cabinet picks were also present. They announced that North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum would be considered for interior secretary.
The camaraderie between Trump and Stallone has had its ups and downs. Despite the actor’s praise, it’s worth noting that Trump once harbored jealousy towards Stallone.
Variety’s Ramin Setoodeh recalled that Trump grumbled about Stallone’s TV performance. He said, “Sylvester Stallone wasn’t as good at making TV.” He also criticized Stallone’s ability to remember lines while hosting The Contender. This glimpse into Trump’s past grievances adds another layer to their complex relationship.
A Relationship Full of Praise and Rivalry
Stallone’s support of Trump is not new. Back in 2016, when Trump was securing his position as the GOP’s presidential nominee, Stallone told Variety, “I love Donald Trump. He’s a great Dickensian character… But I don’t know how that translates to running the world.” His admiration has since evolved into full-blown support, as demonstrated in his recent Mar-a-Lago speech.
The comparison to George Washington, however, took many by surprise. Both critics and supporters are now buzzing. They wonder if Stallone’s remarks were sincere or just an act for the crowd. Either way, his words added a flair to the night. They reminded everyone that the intersection of Hollywood and politics is still dramatic.
