In an industry often defined by carefully worded public relations statements, Sylvester Stallone is taking a blunt approach to the “nepo baby” conversation. The actor recently confirmed that the casting of his daughter, Scarlet Rose Stallone, in the Paramount+ series Tulsa King was a deliberate act of favoritism, framing it as a natural extension of fatherhood.
“Of course it’s nepotism, you idiot,” Stallone stated during an interview with USA Today, which he later addressed at the amfAR Las Vegas gala in October 2026. “That’s why we’re parents. We want the best for our children. Obviously, we let them have every advantage.”
Stallone’s daughter, who is 24, portrays Spencer in the series. Her character originally appeared as a local barista and stable hand but has evolved into a more central figure within the criminal operation led by her father’s character, Dwight “The General” Manfredi. Stallone argued that while his influence provides the initial opportunity, the longevity of a career remains dependent on individual performance.
“You open the door, but then they have to walk through it and they have to maintain that level of excellence,” Stallone explained. “If they don’t have it, they’re gone. It doesn’t matter whose daughter they are.”
A Legacy of Family Casting
This is not the first time Stallone has integrated his family into his professional projects. His late son, Sage Stallone, made his film debut as Robert Balboa Jr. in 1990’s Rocky V, and his son Seargeoh appeared in 1979’s Rocky II. By framing nepotism as a parental virtue rather than a systemic shortcut, Stallone appears to be challenging the traditional defensive stance taken by many Hollywood figures.
According to reporting from TheWrap, Scarlet’s role as Spencer is expected to expand in upcoming episodes as the series moves into its next phase.
The Future of ‘Tulsa King’
The admission comes as Tulsa King prepares for significant changes. The series has already been renewed for a fifth season, with production reportedly shifting toward a New York setting. Scarlet Rose Stallone’s character is slated for further development as the show’s narrative widens beyond its original Oklahoma roots.
As the production moves forward, Stallone’s stance remains firm: he views the use of his professional leverage as an obligation to his children. For the 78-year-old actor, providing “every advantage” is simply part of the job description for a parent in a position of power.
