At a Glance
- The original Rocky statue will be relocated from the foot of the Philadelphia Art Museum to the top of its steps.
- A replica that has topped the steps since December 2024 will be returned to Sylvester Stallone after the museum’s Rocky exhibition ends.
- A new, yet-to-be-named sculpture will replace the original at the base of the steps.
**Why it matters: Fans worldwide say the top of the steps-where Rocky raised his arms in the movie-is the statue’s rightful home.
The Philadelphia Art Museum has voted to move the original Rocky statue-installed at the foot of its steps since its 1982 debut in Rocky III-to the summit of the 72 stone risers that Sylvester Stallone sprinted up on screen.
Replica Leaves, Original Takes Its Place
Since December 2024, a replica has stood at the crest of the museum’s staircase. Visitors from Sacramento to Toronto have re-enacted the triumphant pose beneath that copy, snapping photos and pumping fists skyward.
“It gives them that same strive he had,” said Louis Palacios, visiting from Sacramento. “Everyone wants that same mindset-never give up, get back up.”
The replica, however, belongs to Stallone, and the actor has asked for its return once the museum’s upcoming Rocky exhibition closes.
New Statue Coming to Base
With the replica’s exit, the museum will slide the original bronze-currently at street level-up to the landing where it was first unveiled in the film. No date for the switch has been announced.
In place of the original at the bottom of the steps, curators will install a new sculpture. Officials have not revealed what work will fill the spot.
Visitors Cheer the Change
John Horvath, in town from Toronto, called the move long overdue. “We watched the movie so many times. Everybody watched around the world. This is on top. It’s the place where he actually turned around and gave gratitude toward Philadelphia.”
Airport Statue Stays Put
A third Rocky statue, displayed at PHL Airport, will remain in its current location.
Sarah L. Montgomery reported for News Of Philadelphia.
