For the most part of his career, Sylvester Stallone’s name has been attached to several franchises but it seems the actor is finally shifting away from his roots. With the actor not reprising his role in the new Creed film, the upcoming installment in The Expendables IP will be the last time fans witness Stallone in the role of Barney Ross and leading his group of mercenaries.

And considering it’s the last time we will witness his character of Barney Ross in the mix, he seems to have taken a backseat for the most part of the upcoming film and let his costar take the wheel.

 
Sylvester Stallone

The Expendables 4 will witness Jason Statham taking the lead from Sylvester Stallone

Considering the last 3 movies revolved around the characters of Sylvester Stallone and Jason Statham, the upcoming film might witness the torch being passed from Stallone to Statham. Reflecting on the production of his final Expendables movie, the actor claimed that Statham is going to be the main face of the upcoming entry and the franchise moving forward. With Stallone taking a backseat for the 4th film, he claimed “Jason Statham is 80 percent of it.” Although telling goodbyes to his dearest franchise wasn’t easy, he believes that the franchise is in capable hands. He stated,

“I”m enjoying it, but it’s always bittersweet when something you’ve been so attached to – I guess since, well now it’s been about 12 years – and ready to pass the baton on to Jason in his capable hands.”
Even though it’s hard for fans to see the Rocky Balboa star moving forward from The Expendables that he helped build, Jason Statham is the perfect man to take the lead after Stallone. Like Stallone, the Fast X star has also made a huge name for himself in the action realm and after the Tulsa King actor, he is the perfect fit to lead the team of mercenaries forward.

Jason Statham has always admired Sylvester Stallone

Just like their bond in The Expendables IP, Jason Statham comprises huge respect for his co-star, and ever since his childhood, he has always looked up to Sylvester Stallone. Considering that the Rambo star was one of the biggest names in the industry back then, it’s reasonable to see that his movies left a huge impact on his fans, including a young Statham. Statham stated,
 “These people I’ve admired for decades. Specially Stallone. Ever since I saw the first Rocky years ago.”
 
Jason Statham
With 3 months away from its release, fans are engrossed to witness how Statham and Stallone, accompanied by some new faces, including Megan Fox, will manage to breathe new life into this IP.

The Expendables 4 will hit theatres on 22 September 2023.

Source: The Hollywood Reporter