Sylvester Stallone Defends Daughter Scarlet’s Role in “Tulsa King”: ‘Of Course, It’s Nepotism’

**Sylvester Stallone Embraces Nepotism as Daughter Scarlet Steps into the Spotlight on ‘Tulsa King’**

Sylvester Stallone has publicly endorsed the concept of nepotism in the entertainment industry, particularly in relation to his daughter, Scarlet Rose Stallone, who stars in the Paramount+ series Tulsa King. The veteran actor acknowledged that while he played a significant role in securing her a position on the show, it ultimately falls to her to prove her worth in a highly competitive field.

In Tulsa King, a drama created by Taylor Sheridan, Stallone portrays Dwight “The General” Manfredi, a mafia lieutenant finding his way in Oklahoma after leaving prison. Scarlet, now 24 years old, plays the character Spencer, a stablehand, and is expected to take on a more prominent role as the fourth season unfolds.

In a recent interview with USA Today, Stallone addressed the backlash over the casting of his daughter. His response was both straightforward and unapologetic, stating, “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.” He further clarified that while he might open doors for his children, the onus is on them to maintain their position once they step through.

“There’s no denying it’s nepotism,” Stallone continued, reinforcing that a parent’s instinct is to provide their offspring with every possible advantage. “But to maintain that level of excellence? That’s out of our hands,” he added. “People will say, ‘She got that job, it’s too easy.’ You’re right. Perhaps it could be. But to stay in front of millions of people, you either have it or you don’t.”

Scarlet Stallone is one of three daughters that Sylvester shares with his wife, Jennifer Flavin. The couple’s other daughters are Sophia, 30, and Sistine, 28. Stallone is also a father to two sons from his first marriage to Sasha Czack — Seargeoh, 47, and the late Sage, who passed away in 2012 at the age of 36.

The dynamic between Stallone and his daughter has reportedly evolved since they began working together on Tulsa King. In an interview with PEOPLE, Scarlet expressed that the experience has transformed their relationship. “Before, he was working constantly, so getting to work together for once is just an amazing opportunity,” she shared. “We’ve grown as friends; we’ve really got to know one another and respect each other throughout this whole process, through the ups and downs.”

In addition to her role on Tulsa King, Scarlet has begun to establish herself in Hollywood by collaborating with notable actors. She recently completed projects with Mel Gibson in Hunting Season and Nicolas Cage in Gunslingers, both set for release in 2025.

Stallone’s candid comments on nepotism raise important questions about privilege in the arts, especially in an industry that often scrutinises the backgrounds of its participants. Critics may argue that nepotism undermines meritocracy, but Stallone’s perspective highlights the importance of familial support in pursuing a career in show business.

While some audience members may be quick to dismiss Scarlet’s role as a result of her lineage, Sylvester Stallone’s eager endorsement suggests that he believes she has the talent and resilience needed to thrive in a demanding environment. As new episodes of Tulsa King premiere every Friday on Paramount+, viewers will have the opportunity to assess Scarlet’s performance and determine whether she can carve out her own identity in the world of entertainment.

As the conversation around nepotism continues to spark debate, Stallone’s unapologetic stance adds an intriguing layer to the discussion. For many parents, the instinct to assist their children, especially in competitive fields like acting, is often viewed as a natural part of parenting. Whether or not this approach is ultimately beneficial for Scarlet remains to be seen, but the Stallone family is certainly navigating the intricacies of Hollywood as a united front.