Amazon MGM Studios has confirmed the renewal of its first-look film and television deal with Sylvester Stallone’s Balboa Productions. This new multi-year agreement allows Amazon MGM Studios exclusive access to narrative features and both scripted and unscripted series produced by Balboa.
This collaboration is notably timed with the upcoming 50th anniversary of “Rocky,” the iconic 1976 film that Stallone not only starred in but also wrote. Both Amazon and Balboa are actively working on various projects to celebrate and build on the legacy of this beloved franchise. The relationship between Balboa Productions and Amazon MGM Studios has evolved since Balboa’s previous first-look deal began in 2023, with both their film and TV operations now consolidated under Amazon MGM Studios.
The first project under the renewed deal is an unnamed Mike Thornton film, currently in production in Queensland, Australia. It features Alan Ritchson from “Reacher” and is directed by Patrick Hughes. In the realm of television, Stallone’s daughter, Sophia Stallone, is developing a psychological series titled “Mindf*ck,” based on a popular book series, for Amazon MGM Studios.
In addition to his work with Balboa, Stallone is also filming the fourth season of “Tulsa King” for Paramount+, where he serves as both star and executive producer. Furthermore, Balboa Productions is gearing up for the second season of its competition series “Extracted,” premiering on January 26.
Stallone expressed enthusiasm about his partnership with Amazon, emphasizing the inspiration he draws from telling stories that resonate with audiences. He remarked on Amazon’s dedication to exploring new narratives, especially as the 50th anniversary of “Rocky” approaches.
Balboa Productions has already delivered several hits under the Amazon MGM umbrella, including “Samaritan,” which debuted exclusively on streaming, and “Creed III” and “A Working Man,” both of which topped the U.S. box office upon their releases. The studio has also recently greenlit “Delphi,” a TV series linked to the “Creed” universe, although Stallone and Balboa do not have creative roles in that project.
Valenti and Friedlander from Amazon MGM Studios praised Balboa Productions for its strong storytelling capabilities. They noted that this deal represents a strategic partnership that will support significant film and television projects, especially as they celebrate the legacy of “Rocky.”
With ambitions to create compelling character-driven stories that resonate with global audiences, Balboa Productions is poised for an exciting future. Led by Matt Geller and Kourosh Taj, the team aims to deliver a new era of high-quality scripted and unscripted content that reflects Stallone’s storied career in cinema. Stallone, a recent Kennedy Center honoree, is also anticipating the release of his book, “The Steps,” set for publication on May 5.