Stallone Reveals End of Decades-Long Rivalry With Schwarzenegger Came During Political Run
Sylvester Stallone has disclosed that his long-standing rivalry with Arnold Schwarzenegger concluded when the latter entered politics.
Sylvester Stallone has revealed that his decades-long rivalry with Arnold Schwarzenegger came to an end when the latter decided to run for governor of California. According to reports, this marked a significant shift in the dynamic between the two iconic actors, who were once fierce competitors on the silver screen. 12
The rivalry between Stallone and Schwarzenegger is said to have been characterized by their shared prominence in the action film genre, with both stars starring in numerous blockbusters that showcased their physical prowess and charisma. This competitive spirit was evident in their respective careers, which often saw them vying for the spotlight in similar roles and genres. 12
However, the timeline and nature of their rivalry have been subject to some debate. While one source suggests that the rivalry spanned from the 1980s to the 1990s, another indicates that it may have begun earlier, at the 1977 Golden Globe Awards, where Schwarzenegger won the Best Newcomer award while Stallone's 'Rocky' took home Best Motion Picture - Drama. Despite these differing accounts, it is widely reported that the rivalry persisted until Schwarzenegger's political ambitions led him away from Hollywood. 12
Interestingly, the exact duration of the rivalry is also contested. One report states that it lasted for approximately 20 years, ending with Schwarzenegger's gubernatorial bid, whereas another source does not specify a definitive start date, suggesting a more fluid timeline. 12
In a heartwarming turn of events, the two actors reportedly mended their relationship in 2007, meeting up at a cigar shop to enjoy a friendly chat and perhaps reminisce about their storied past. This reconciliation serves as a testament to the enduring bond between these Hollywood legends, despite their previous competitive history. 2
What we know
- - Their rivalry ended when Arnold Schwarzenegger ran for governor of California. 12
- - Both actors starred in multiple action films as part of their rivalry. 12
- - In 2007, Stallone and Schwarzenegger met at a cigar shop, indicating a reconciliation. 2
What remains unclear
Trust Score report
Partly unverified — probability of truth 63%, weighted across 8 claims from 2 independent outlets.
- likely Their rivalry ended when Arnold Schwarzenegger ran for governor of California. (82%)
- likely Both actors starred in multiple action films as part of their rivalry. (82%)
- unverified At the 1977 Golden Globe Awards, Schwarzenegger won the Best Newcomer award while Stallone's film Rocky won Best Motion Picture - Drama. (65%)
- unverified Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger had a rivalry lasting from the 1980s to the 1990s. (57%)
- unverified The rivalry was characterized by competition for the title of top action star. (57%)
- disputed The rivalry between Stallone and Schwarzenegger began at the 1977 Golden Globe Awards. (43%)
- disputed The rivalry lasted for approximately 20 years until Schwarzenegger ran for governor. (43%)
- unverified In 2007, Stallone and Schwarzenegger reconciled at a cigar shop. (65%)
Sources
- Variety — Sylvester Stallone Says His 20-Year Rivalry With Arnold Schwarzenegger Only Ended When He Ran for Governor and Wasn’t ‘Doing Movies Anymore’
https://variety.com/2026/film/news/sylvester-stallone-rivalry-arnold-schwarzenegger-1236942209/ - Us Weekly — Sylvester Stallone Recalls 'Contentious' Feud With Arnold Schwarzenegger
https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/sylvester-stallone-recalls-arnold-schwarzenegger-feud/