Sylvester Stallone slams nepotism critics over daughter’s Tulsa King role
On Oct. 18, 2026 Sylvester Stallone responded to criticism that he had engaged in nepotism by casting his daughter, Scarlet Rose Stallone, in the crime drama Tulsa King, calling the detractors “idiots.”
The actor, who plays mob boss Dwight “The General” Manfredi, defended his decision in an interview that was reported by USA Today and other outlets. He said, “First, they go, ‘Nepotism is terrible.’ I said, ‘Oh please, you’re not a good parent if you haven’t performed a little nepotism. Then obviously you don’t care about your kids, because they come first,’” and added, “Of course it’s nepotism, you idiot. That’s why we’re parents. We want the best for our children. So obviously we let them have every advantage.”
Scarlet Rose Stallone, 24, portrays Spencer, a character who has become increasingly involved in the criminal enterprise depicted in the series. Her role grew from a supporting presence in season one to a more central figure in season four, as the storyline follows her father’s character expanding a New York mob operation in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Stallone’s remarks underscored a broader conversation about family ties in Hollywood casting, separating the concept of opportunity from the need to prove oneself on merit. He acknowledged that while nepotism can open doors, sustained success depends on performance, noting, “Can they maintain that level of excellence? That’s out of our hands.”
The veteran actor also used the interview to discuss his own physical toll from decades of stunt work, revealing that the demanding action sequences of films like The Expendables resulted in nine back surgeries, three neck fusions, and significant shoulder injuries. He warned younger performers, saying, “Don’t. Don’t. Let the pro do it,” when referring to stunts.
As Tulsa King continues its fourth season, the discussion surrounding Scarlet’s casting is likely to persist, reflecting ongoing debates about how familial connections shape opportunities in the entertainment industry.
