Sylvester Stallone to Produce Prequel Series “John Rambo” with Lionsgate

Sylvester Stallone Joins Prequel ‘John Rambo’ as Executive Producer

Sylvester Stallone, a three-time Oscar nominee and the original John Rambo actor, has signed on as an executive producer for the forthcoming prequel John Rambo, produced by Lionsgate, Millennium Media, and AGBO. This marks Stallone’s first role as a producer in the Rambo franchise, which now expands to six films.

Set prior to the events of the 1982 classic First Blood, Stallone is not expected to appear in this installment. Instead, Noah Centineo will portray the iconic character of Rambo. Directed by Jalmari Helander, known for his work on Sisu, filming is currently underway in Bangkok, Thailand.

Stallone has previously contributed as a writer to the first five Rambo films, which collectively grossed over $819 million at the global box office. He also directed the 2008 entry, Rambo.

Adam Fogelson, Chair of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, stated, “Sylvester Stallone knows the character of John Rambo better than anyone, and Lionsgate has had the good fortune of partnering with Sly for more than 20 years on this legendary IP. His participation is the final, critical piece to John Rambo, and we’re thrilled to have his involvement.”

The screenplay for John Rambo was penned by Rory Haines and Sohrab Noshirvani, with production led by Kevin King Templeton, Les Weldon, and Jonathan Yunger for Millennium Media, alongside Angela Russo-Otstot and Michael Disco for AGBO. Executive producers include Anthony and Joe Russo, Trevor Short, and Dallas Sonnier, among others, in addition to Stallone. The film will be produced collaboratively by Lionsgate, Millennium Media, Templeton Media, and AGBO.

Joining Centineo in the cast are Yao (from Sinners), Jason Tobin (A Thousand Blows), Quincy Isaiah (Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty), Jefferson White (Yellowstone), and Tayme Thapthimthong (The White Lotus).

In November 2022, Lionsgate struck a deal with Millennium Media to acquire rights for developing and producing all derivative works, including future films and TV projects related to the Rambo franchise, alongside worldwide distribution rights for the upcoming John Rambo film.

Stallone also shared the announcement on his social media platforms.