Philadelphia is once again home to one of its most iconic figures: Rocky Balboa.
Creative Philadelphia has approved a preliminary plan to return the bronze statue of Sylvester Stallone’s legendary underdog boxer to the top of the steps of the Philadelphia Art Museum, where it first made its cinematic mark. The statue, which debuted in the 1982 sequel Rocky III, celebrates Stallone’s rags-to-riches character, a punch-drunk fighter who rises to fame against the odds, the New York Times reported.
Originally, the board considered returning the 8-foot-6-inch sculpture—created by artist A. Thomas Schomberg in 1980—to Stallone. But after receiving strong public feedback, the city decided to keep the statue in Philadelphia. “In response to the strong and heartfelt feedback from the public, Mr. Stallone has graciously decided that we will no longer move forward with the statue swap,” said Valerie V. Gay, the city’s chief cultural officer, in the Philadelphia Inquirer.
“This outcome reflects our shared commitment to listen deeply to the community and do what is best for both the art and the people who cherish it,” she added.
Since the release of the original Rocky in 1976—a surprise low-budget Academy Award winner—the character has become a symbol of perseverance, inspiring six major films and countless fans.
While the statue is beloved by moviegoers, some art critics have debated whether the piece belongs outside a museum filled with works by classical masters. Meanwhile, sports enthusiasts have suggested honoring real-life boxing legend Joe Frazier instead.
The bronze Rocky has moved multiple times over the decades, leaving behind metal footprints marking its previous locations. It has returned for various film moments, including Mannequin (1987), Philadelphia (1993), and Rocky V (1990).
Last week, Creative Philadelphia’s board voted 3-1, with two abstentions, to temporarily place Rocky back at the top of the steps. The statue will be featured in an upcoming exhibit titled Rising Up: Rocky and the Making of Monuments, scheduled to run from April through August, according to the Inquirer.
Though two other cast copies of the statue exist, it is the original Rocky that continues to capture the city’s imagination and admiration.