SAG-AFTRA responds to “toxic” Sylvester Stallone allegations
Following accusations that Hollywood heavyweight Sylvester Stallone was heard disrespecting the background actors on the set of Tulsa King and creating a “toxic environment,” SAG-AFTRA has responded to the claims.
The show’s casting director, Rose Locke, quit after Stallone reportedly complained that the background actors were not satisfactory, going as far as to insult their looks.
Julie Benson, a television writer not associated with Tulsa King, took to Twitter to share screenshots she received detailing Stallone’s behaviour. She explained, “Got this disturbing news from my Atlanta friend who’s background on Tulsa King this wk. Casting agent quit because she was so disgusted.”
She revealed: “My friend is feeling anxious about working now,” before asking, “Sylvester Stallone what do you have to say for yourself, sir? Beyond disappointed, I’m livid.”
Attached to the Tweet was an email sent from Locke, which stated that she decided to step away from the project because of the “clear toxic environment,” adding that she was “not comfortable with putting myself or background artists in [it].”
The other attachment was a screenshot of a Facebook post with the username blurred out, detailing Stallone’s concerning and unprofessional attitude on set. It states that “Sylvester Stallone was observed calling the director over and saying ‘what the F* is up with these F**** ugly background [actors].'”
Stallone was accused of calling the actors “terrible names” and “laughing” at them. Some of these insults included “tub of lard” and “fat guy with cane.” He also requested that new background actors be brought in, explicitly asking for “pretty young girls to be around me.”
Since the news has come to light, SAG-AFTRA has made a statement condemning the creation of such a “toxic” environment. They said: “There is no room on any set for disparaging comments to background actors or any performers.”
They added that while they have “not been contacted directly about the incident on set of Tulsa King in Atlanta, SAG-AFTRA is committed to the safety and well being of cast members on all productions.”
SAG-AFTRA also reassured that they are “here to support with guidance if requested.”
Tulsa King was renewed for a second season in 2022 after the first batch of episodes were watched by millions of viewers. Production of season two is still ongoing, with Locke’s email revealing that “someone else will take over” her role in the coming weeks. A release date has not yet been announced.
Stallone is yet to comment on the allegations.
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