Sylvester Stallone embraced a moment of reverence for Donald Trump, likening him to the first president of the United States, George Washington, during an event at the Mar-A-Lago Club. Stallone was speaking at the America First Policy Institute gala when he made his remarks about the newly elected president, embedding his praise in a narrative that drew parallels between Trump’s journey and that of his iconic character, Rocky Balboa, from the classic film of the same name.
In his address, Stallone began by referencing the motivational spirit of the 1976 film, highlighting a symbolic transformation that mirrors Trump’s own political journey. He stated, “At that moment, he was a chosen person… this man was gonna go through a metamorphosis and change lives,” suggesting that Trump, much like Rocky, was destined for greatness.
Stallone’s admiration turned to a mythic scale, speaking of Trump as a “mythical character” whose impact is unparalleled. He reflected on Washington’s profound legacy, stating, “When George Washington defended his country, he had no idea that he was going to change the world.” With this comparison, Stallone proclaimed Trump as the “second George Washington,” suggesting that his leadership could result in transformative changes for the world.
Interestingly, it’s noted that Stallone did not formally endorse any presidential candidate in the most recent elections. He remarked in a 2016 interview his fondness for Trump, referring to him as a “great Dickensian character,” encapsulating the perception of Trump as larger than life, but also recognizing the complexities of political leadership.
Additionally, Stallone’s past engagement with Trump includes advocating for a posthumous pardon for heavyweight boxing champion Jack Johnson. Stallone hailed Trump’s decision to grant the pardon as “incredible,” underlining a history of support that has spanned across multiple years.
In summary, Stallone’s remarks may resonate with a portion of the audience that appreciates figures who represent resilience and change. His comparison of Trump to Washington could inspire hope among supporters who view current leadership as capable of making significant impacts, reminiscent of historical figures who shaped nations.
This event indicates that celebrities continue to play impactful roles in political discourse, and highlights the intricate relationship between entertainment, personal admiration, and political influence in today’s society.