Sylvester Stallone was born in New York City's Hell's Kitchen to Jackie Stallone and Frank Stallone. His birth was complicated by a forceps accident, which resulted in his distinctive droopy visage and slurred speech due to a severed nerve.

Stallone spent most of his first five years in foster homes due to his parents' constant conflicts and neglect.

Stallone struggled emotionally and academically, leading to his expulsion from about 14 schools. He eventually attended a special high school for troubled youth in Philadelphia.

Stallone attended the American College in Switzerland and later the University of Miami, where he studied drama. However, he left college before completing his degree to pursue an acting career in New York City.