30/12/2025
The provided images capture some of the most influential figures in action cinema, documenting their transformation from intense box-office rivals to enduring friends and business partners.
Evolution of the Action Trio (Image 1)
This image features Arnold Schwarzenegger, Dolph Lundgren, and Sylvester Stallone, reflecting their decades-long professional and personal connection.
Then (2012): This photo dates to the promotional period for The Expendables 2, an ensemble film that brought these three legends together on screen.
Now (2023): A more recent photo shows the trio in a relaxed social setting, illustrating a bond that survived their earlier competition. Despite their history of rivalry, they have become close friends, often gathering at each other's homes to trade "friendly insults" and celebrate their long careers.
A Near-Fatal Start: The collaboration between Stallone and Lundgren began with Rocky IV (1985). Seeking absolute realism, Stallone instructed Lundgren to "really hit him" during the fight scenes. One powerful uppercut from Lundgren caused Stallone's heart to slam against his breastbone, resulting in a life-threatening injury that sent Stallone to the ICU for several days.
A Rare Iconic Meeting (Image 2)
The second image captures a historical meeting between Clint Eastwood, Sylvester Stallone, and Steven Seagal.
Date and Event: This photograph was taken on September 7, 1995, at the ShoWest convention in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Cinematic Styles: The image represents a crossover of three distinct brands of action: Eastwood's stoic grit, Stallone's underdog heroism, and Seagal's martial-arts-driven efficiency.
Franchise Trivia: While this trio never starred in a film together, producers for The Expendables 3 (2014) reportedly attempted to recruit both Eastwood and Seagal for roles. However, neither ultimately appeared in the film due to scheduling or production conflicts.