Stallone Reveals Why Jason Statham Is His ‘Chosen Successor’ in Action Cinema

Sylvester Stallone and Jason Statham’s professional relationship has long been a hallmark of the action film industry. From their iconic partnership in The Expendables to recent projects like A Working Man (2025), the two actors share a dynamic that is both professional and deeply rooted in mutual respect. In recent comments, Stallone opened up about his “special feelings” for Statham, hinting at a bond that goes beyond the typical mentor-mentee dynamic that often characterizes their collaboration.

A Legacy of Professional Partnerships

Stallone and Statham first teamed up in The Expendables (2010), a franchise that Stallone created and starred in. Statham’s character, Lee Christmas, became a key figure in the ensemble cast, showcasing a partnership that blended tough guy bravado with moments of camaraderie and mutual respect. Over the course of four films, the two actors shared the screen, with their on-screen chemistry—often referred to as a “bromance”—becoming a major element of the series’ appeal.

In The Expendables 4 (2023), Stallone took a step back, reducing his role while giving Statham more screen time, signaling a clear transition of leadership within the franchise. This move was not just a creative decision but also a testament to Stallone’s belief in Statham’s abilities as an action star.

Mentorship and Trust: The Writing Process

Stallone’s admiration for Statham is also evident in his creative decisions, particularly in the screenplays he’s written for Statham. In Homefront (2013), Stallone wrote the role specifically for Statham, showcasing his confidence in the British actor’s ability to carry a lead role in a gritty action film. Their collaboration didn’t stop there; in A Working Man (2025), Stallone served as a producer and co-writer, creating a character for Statham to embody—Levon Cade, a retired military veteran.

These creative decisions, especially Stallone’s willingness to write roles specifically for Statham, point to a deep professional respect, as writing a character for an actor often indicates trust in their ability to bring that role to life. As Stallone himself admitted in interviews, he has always had a soft spot for Statham, referring to their time working together as a rewarding experience.

“Special Feelings”: Mentorship or Affection?

The phrase “special feelings” could imply more than just admiration; it could refer to a genuine affection that has developed between Stallone and Statham over the years. While Stallone has not explicitly described these feelings in personal terms, their professional relationship speaks volumes. Stallone’s decision to reduce his role in The Expendables 4 and pass the torch to Statham, elevating him to a leading position, indicates not just professional respect but also a sense of mentorship that has grown over their years of collaboration.

Director David Ayer, who worked with them on A Working Man, commented in an interview with Moviefone, “It felt like a great team up,” underscoring the chemistry and shared understanding between the two actors. This reflects the ease with which they work together, further hinting at the personal connection that has been forged over their shared experiences in the action genre.

Stallone and Statham’s Unique Bond

What sets Stallone and Statham apart from Stallone’s other collaborations with action stars, such as Arnold Schwarzenegger or Dolph Lundgren, is the depth of their professional relationship. While Stallone has worked with many legends in the action genre, his creative involvement in writing roles specifically for Statham makes their partnership distinct. Their chemistry, honed over multiple Expendables films and further solidified through projects like Homefront and A Working Man, suggests a connection that goes beyond the typical on-screen rapport.

This dynamic is particularly significant in an industry where relationships between actors can often be fleeting or driven by competition. Stallone’s decision to consistently collaborate with Statham points to a unique and enduring bond that has stood the test of time.

Conclusion: A Strong Partnership Built on Trust

Sylvester Stallone’s “special feelings” for Jason Statham reflect a professional relationship that has evolved from collaboration to mentorship, built on mutual respect and trust. As their careers continue to intersect, it’s clear that their bond extends beyond just the roles they play on screen. From The Expendables series to A Working Man, their partnership continues to evolve, marking a significant chapter in both of their storied careers. For fans of action films, the connection between these two icons adds an extra layer of depth to their already legendary on-screen chemistry.