Sylvester Stallone Claims Richard Gere Spilled Chicken Grease on Him When Their 1974 On-Set Feud Turned into a Physical Altercation

Sylvester Stallone has unveiled a revealing account of his early career in his newly released memoir, *The Steps*, which hit the shelves on September 29. The 80-year-old actor has particularly drawn attention for his candid recollections of his time working alongside Richard Gere while filming *The Lords of Flatbush* in 1974.

In the memoir, Stallone reflects on the tension that developed between him and Gere during the audition process, a situation exacerbated by an altercation during improvisation exercises. He recalls how the initial chemistry with Robert De Niro, who was also auditioning for the film, was promising. Stallone described the camaraderie as a spirited exchange, but things took a turn when he began improvising with Gere.

During these improvisations, Stallone recounts a moment when Gere allegedly grabbed his T-shirt, causing discomfort. He noted, “I told him to back off, but he did it again on the second take.” Stallone expressed that Gere’s actions triggered a surge of emotions within him, leading him to consult director Stephen Verona about how to proceed. “Is it okay if I ad-lib here and react the way I would actually react if someone did that to me in real life?” Stallone asked, reflecting a deepening tension that was palpable on set.

As if the atmosphere needed further turmoil, a lunch break proved to be the catalyst for additional friction. Stallone claimed that he inadvertently spilled chicken grease on Gere, resulting in yet another confrontation. “A stream of chicken grease spilled off the foil paper onto my leg,” Stallone recalled, leading him to confront Gere physically. The escalating situation prompted Stallone to pull Gere out of the car, at which point a hesitant Gere remarked, “Hey, man, I don’t want to get physical.” To which Stallone replied, “Too late…”

The friction between the two actors led to significant changes in the film’s cast. Ultimately, both Gere and De Niro exited the project, setting the stage for Perry King and Henry Winkler to step in as replacements. Stallone reflected on these changes as a crucial turning point in his career, noting that he developed a strong friendship with Winkler, who supported him during a challenging time as he was trying to establish himself in Hollywood.

Stallone’s memoir not only provides insight into his professional experiences but also hints at the complexities of relationships in the competitive film industry. In a fascinating twist, Stallone’s account is echoed by Elton John in his own memoir, where he claims that a subsequent confrontation nearly arose between Gere and Stallone over Princess Diana in the 1990s. Such anecdotes paint a vivid picture of the intertwined lives of these prominent figures in show business.

Stallone’s revelations have provoked a mixed response from fans and insiders alike, and while Gere’s representative declined to comment on the matter, the incident adds yet another layer to the mythology that surrounds Stallone’s storied career. The evolving dynamics of film production, filled with both creativity and tension, are evident in Stallone’s narrative, offering a glimpse into the reality behind the silver screen.

As Stallone continues to be an influential figure in the entertainment industry, he remains a symbol of resilience and determination. His ability to navigate conflicts and emerge with lasting friendships, like the one with Winkler, underscores his commitment to his craft and the relationships he fosters along the way. This memoir not only revisits pivotal moments in his career but also serves as a reminder of the complexities inherent in collaboration and artistry.

Whether readers will resonate with the emotional truths within Stallone’s memoir remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly adds an intriguing chapter to the history of Hollywood in the 1970s.