- Preparing for the forthcoming episode in the Rocky spin-off series here's what to anticipate.
In the spin-off of "Rocky," titled "Creed," the story revolves around the offspring of Rocky Balboa's arch-rival, Apollo Creed, played by Carl Weathers. This franchise has distinguished itself from its massive predecessor with each sequel, notably in "Creed III - Rocky's Legacy," where Sylvester Stallone was absent from his classic role for the first time. Directed by Michael B. Jordan, the film continues to captivate audiences, with its free TV premiere on ProSieben occurring on September 1.
The narrative centers on Adonis "Donnie" Creed (played by Jordan), now a boxing studio owner in Los Angeles, imparting his wisdom to aspiring athletes. His time is shared between his wife Bianca (Tessa Thompson) and their deaf daughter Amara, who's growing an interest in boxing. However, their peaceful life is disrupted by Damian "Dame" Anderson (Jonathan Majors), a former friend turned adversary due to a bitter past incident that led Majors to prison, while Jordan escaped unscathed. Seeking revenge, the two confront each other in the ring.
The Question of a Fourth Installment
Boasting strong box office numbers, "Creed III" sparked speculation about a possible fourth iteration. In November 2023, Irwin Winkler, Hollywood producer, confirmed the return of the "Creed" series, with Michael B. Jordan set to direct and star. Information regarding the sequel has remained scarce, although Winkler mentioned pre-production would start within a year. The tentative release timeframe is early 2026, with no plot details revealed yet.
The Cast
Sylvester Stallone is unlikely to reappear as Rocky Balboa, as per his public statements. Stallone views his storyline as conclusively wrapped up in "Creed II," while also harboring resentment towards producer Winkler for allegedly exploiting both franchises. The outlook for Jonathan Majors might be similarly dim, given his conviction for domestic violence last year, causing Hollywood to reconsider his roles.
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The "Creed" spinoff, centering around Rocky Balboa's competitor's son, Apollo Creed, steadily distinguished itself from its oversized precedent with each installation. This evolution was especially profound in "Creed III - Rocky's Legacy," marking Sylvester Stallone's absence from his signature role for the first time.
The film, debuting Michael B. Jordan as its director, was a standout despite Stallone's absence, initially causing disillusionment for many fans. Free TV broadcast of "Creed III" commences on September 1 on ProSieben at 8:15 PM, creating anticipation about a fourth part.
A New Old Foe for Adonis Creed
Adonis Creed (Jordan), the former boxer, had hung up the gloves. Now, he runs a boxing studio in Los Angeles, mentoring up-and-coming talents. He spends his free time with wife Bianca (Thompson) and their increasingly boxing-enthusiastic daughter, Amara.
However, their tranquility is jeopardized when Damian "Dame" Anderson (Majors), an old friend turned adversary, resurfaces. Their friendship was shattered by a pivotal incident in 2002, with Majors landing in prison, while Jordan escaped without penalty for his involvement. Majors seeks payback from the renowned boxing champion presumed to have seized his heavyweight title chance. The confrontation between the two ignites as they stand in the ring, sparring.
A Fourth Round?
Despite its success without Stallone, "Creed III" piqued interest in a potential fourth installment. Confirming the revival in November 2023 was producer Irwin Winkler, who also revealed Michael B. Jordan's continued engagement in lead acting and directorial roles. Details surrounding the sequel have been kept secret, and Winkler stated pre-production would commence within a year from the disclosure—which would be around two to three months from now. No plot details have surfaced yet, but a cinema release is rumored only as early as 2026.
The Players
Speculations surrounding Sylvester Stallone's return as Rocky Balboa persist, but he has publicly announced the conclusion of his character's storyline in "Creed II." Additionally, his retrospective animosity towards producer Winkler casts his involvement in doubt. Similarly, Jonathan Majors might not return due to the professional repercussions of his 2023 domestic violence conviction, which affected his roles in major Hollywood productions, including Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
In the upcoming fourth installment of the "Creed" series, Carl Weathers might not reprise his role as Apollo Creed's son, Apollo Jr., given Irwin Winkler's confirmation of Michael B. Jordan's continued involvement as both actor and director. The potential return of Sylvester Stallone as Rocky Balboa and Jonathan Majors as Damian "Dame" Anderson remain uncertain due to their public statements and professional consequences, respectively.
