Losing a child is one of the hardest things a parent can go through. For Sylvester Stallone, this became a reality when his first-born son, Sage Stallone, passed away in 2012 at just 36 years old.
Before the official cause of death was revealed, there were many theories. Some believed it was due to substances, while others suspected it was intentional. But the truth was far more unexpected.
A Challenging Start
Stallone’s journey was never easy. A medical issue at birth affected his facial muscles, shaping the distinct look and voice that later became his trademark. However, it also made his childhood difficult.
At home, he faced challenges that led to struggles in school. By the age of 12, he had already been expelled from several schools. Seeking direction, he turned to fitness and acting. But before he found success, he faced years of financial hardship, even spending nights at a bus station.
His breakthrough came in 1976 with Rocky, changing his life forever.
Family Life and Fatherhood
Before fame, Stallone married Sasha Czack, and they had two sons, Sage and Seargeoh. Although his marriage ended in 1985, he later remarried and had three daughters.
Sage developed a passion for film. He acted alongside his father in Rocky V and Daylight and later founded a company dedicated to preserving classic films.
An Unexpected Loss
On July 13, 2012, Sage was found unresponsive in his home. Speculation spread quickly. Some reports suggested he had been gone for days, but this was later proven false. Others claimed he struggled with substances, but his lawyer denied this.
Sage had undergone dental surgery two weeks before his passing. His mother had warned him not to have multiple procedures done at once. He had five teeth removed and took pain medication for recovery.
The Real Cause
In August 2012, autopsy results confirmed that Sage passed away due to heart disease. Though medication was found in his system, it was not an overdose.
Stallone later spoke about the pain of losing his son but focused on moving forward with his family. Today, his other children continue to pursue their passions, bringing joy to their father’s life.