Two Stallone Classics Return in 2027 — Without Stallone Leading the Charge.
Sylvester Stallone spent decades shaping Hollywood’s action landscape with characters who became cultural icons. Yet 2027 marks a surprising shift: two of his major franchises are returning, but neither will feature Stallone in the role that defined the series. Both Cliffhanger and John Rambo are being revived — each in a radically different way, and each without Stallone on screen.
Cliffhanger Reimagined: Lily James Takes the Lead
The 2027 Cliffhanger is not a sequel but a full reboot. Instead of revisiting Gabe Walker, the mountain rescuer Stallone portrayed in 1993, the new film introduces Naomi Cooper, played by Lily James.
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A New Story in the Dolomites
- Pierce Brosnan stars as Ray Cooper, a seasoned mountaineer running a luxury chalet with his daughters.
- When kidnappers target the family, Naomi must fight to protect her father and sister — and survive the brutal mountain terrain.
- Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, known for high‑intensity thrillers.
Originally conceived as a continuation with Stallone returning, the project was reshaped into a standalone reboot. Current distribution listings place the U.S. release in February 2027, with some international markets expecting a spring debut.
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John Rambo Returns — As a Younger Man
The bigger transformation comes with John Rambo. Instead of continuing the story after Last Blood, the new film travels back in time. It’s a prequel set before the events of 1982’s First Blood.
A New Face for a Legendary Soldier
- Noah Centineo plays the young John Rambo.
- The film explores the experiences that shaped him long before audiences met him in the original movie.
- David Harbour portrays Major Trautman, a pivotal figure in Rambo’s life.
- Directed by Jalmari Helander, known for the Sisu films.
- Supporting cast includes Yao, Jason Tobin, Quincy Isaiah, Jefferson White and Tayme Thapthimthong.
Stallone is not returning as Rambo but remains involved behind the scenes as an executive producer. Lionsgate has scheduled the film for June 4, 2027.
A message from Sylvester Stallone, Executive Producer of JOHN RAMBO – Now in Production. pic.twitter.com/877ERR4Gam
— John Rambo Film (@JohnRamboFilm) March 9, 2026
A Turning Point for Stallone’s Legacy
Both projects highlight a significant moment in Stallone’s career. His most iconic action characters are moving forward without him physically leading the franchises. Instead, new actors and new interpretations are stepping into worlds once defined by his presence.
- Cliffhanger introduces a fresh protagonist and a modernized storyline.
- John Rambo reimagines the character’s origins with a younger cast.
For Stallone, this marks a transition from on‑screen legend to off‑screen architect — allowing his creations to evolve while he guides them from behind the camera.