Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone had a rivalry that is fit for the pages of Hollywood history. While the rivalry was punctuated with times when the two actors could not stand each other, the two industry veterans have immense respect for each other, as showcased by how praiseful the duo are of each other.
Speaking with Jonathan Ross, Stallone talked about his admiration of Schwarzenegger, talking about how the man was able to crack three careers with great success. Stallone broke down what he thinks makes the Predator actor special, even saying that he has what it takes to be the President of the United States of America.
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Sylvester Stallone says Arnold Schwarzenegger is a genius
In conversation with Jonathan Ross, the Rocky actor spoke about what he thinks of the Commando star. When asked by Ross, Stallone said:
“You know, Arnold is a genius, I mean, seriously, he has had three incredible careers. He might not be able to sit there and split atoms, but he knows how to get things done.”
Here, Stallone refers to the fact that not only is Schwarzenegger an accomplished actor, but he is also a veteran bodybuilder and politician, all careers that he has nurtured with distinction. In fact, Stallone, on the show, admitted voting for Schwarzenegger, impressed by his acumen to get things done. Stallone was also keen on pointing out why he would make a great president. When asked if Arnold would get voted in, the Rocky II star said:
“Unbelievably. I mean, believe it or not, He gets it. He gets it. And if you look at an American politician, all you need is the catchphrase.”
While the latter part of that comment was made in jest, Schwarzenegger definitely has his share of catchphrases, enough so that it could make him the President of the United States (or not, let’s check in with Skynet before we do that)
Sometimes, the rivalry between the two stars was intense
While the actors might be good friends now, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone were bitter rivals in their prime. Both actors reached a point in their rivalry when they could not stand each other, even going on record to say they would like the strangle the other party.
However, the two industry legends have settled into their roles as veterans of Hollywood, eyeing and reviving franchises that were once the reason for their popularity. Stallone brought back Rocky Balboa with Creed, and Arnold Schwarzenegger stuck to his Terminator roots, all the way to Dark Fate. While both actors have refused roles in their franchises of choice (Creed and Predator, respectively), the actors are sure to continue their winning streak all the way to the bank, for a long time to come.
