Dolph Lundgren shot to stardom playing the role of Soviet boxer Ivan Drago in “Rocky IV” opposite Sylvester Stallone. But even after more than 40 years, the beloved Swedish actor, now 68, still carries guilt for accidentally injuring Stallone during the filming of the iconic movie.
In a recent interview on FOX & Friends, Lundgren shared how he learned about Stallone’s broken ribs from their intense fight scene. Despite both actors going hard on each other, Lundgren never intended to harm Stallone. Reflecting on the incident, he expressed remorse for the accident, stating, “I did feel a little guilty, you know, he hit me too. He was the boss, and I did what he told me, which was good.”
While best known for his role in “Rocky IV,” Lundgren also gained recognition for his appearance in the “Universal Soldier” franchise. Recently, the actor showcased his enduring strength and flexibility in a gym photo shared with his 3.6 million Instagram followers. The post, highlighting his muscular physique and impressive flexibility, served as a testament to his resilience, especially considering his recent battle with cancer.
During a candid interview on In Depth with Graham Bensinger, Lundgren opened up about his cancer diagnosis in 2015, which led to the removal of a tumor on his kidney. After a subsequent relapse in 2020, with tumors found on his liver, lung, stomach, spine, and kidneys, Lundgren was given a grim prognosis. However, by changing his treatment strategy, the actor saw a significant improvement, with the tumors almost disappearing by 2022.
In a hopeful Instagram post in 2024, Lundgren shared his anticipation for a procedure to eliminate the final tumor, expressing gratitude for his journey and looking forward to a brighter future. Despite the challenges he faced, Lundgren’s resilience and determination to overcome his health struggles serve as an inspiration to many.
As an enduring figure in the entertainment industry, Lundgren’s journey through fame, health battles, and personal growth exemplifies the tenacity and spirit of a true survivor. His story serves as a reminder of the power of resilience and the importance of living in the present moment.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.