Rocky star Sylvester Stallone, 79, uses cane in public for first time during award ceremony

The Rambo star was seen at 48th Kennedy Center Honors in Washington

Sylvester Stallone made a striking impression as he stepped onto the red carpet at the 48th Kennedy Center Honors in Washington, D.C., on December 7, 2025.

The 79-year-old Hollywood icon, being celebrated as one of this year’s esteemed honorees, looked dapper in a classic black tuxedo paired with his Kennedy Center medallion, but it was his unexpected accessory that drew attention: a black cane, marking the first time the actor has been seen using one in public.

The Rocky legend stood tall and composed, the cane in his right hand as he smiled for cameras against the event’s sleek black-and-gold backdrop.

The longtime couple posed arm in arm, radiating elegance and unity as photographers captured one of the evening’s standout moments.

Additional full-length images show Sylvestor confidently navigating the red carpet with the support of his cane, a subtle but notable change for the action star known for his on-screen toughness and physicality.

Despite the new accessory, he appeared upbeat and proud as he celebrated one of the most prestigious honors of his five-decade career.

Sylvester recently opened up on his relationship with his late son, admitting that he often put work over his family.