Sylvester Stallone’s family endured deep tragedy in 2012 when his eldest son, Sage Stallone, died at age 36.
Sage was found unresponsive in his Los Angeles home in July 2012. Early reports led to widespread speculation about drugs, alcohol, or suicide. However, those claims were later dismissed by family representatives and investigators.
An autopsy determined that Sage died from a heart attack caused by atherosclerosis, a hardening of the arteries. Toxicology results showed small amounts of prescribed pain medication in his system, but there was no overdose.
In the weeks before his death, Sage had undergone dental surgery, during which several teeth were removed. His mother, Sasha Czack, later said she had urged him not to proceed with multiple extractions at once. After the procedure, he was taking pain medication for discomfort. Two weeks later, he passed away unexpectedly.
Stallone publicly asked for privacy and respect following his son’s death. He described the loss as overwhelming and said no parent should have to endure such pain. Sage, his first child, held a special place in his heart.
The tragedy was ultimately the result of an undiagnosed heart condition, not substance abuse or intentional harm. For Stallone and his family, the loss remains a lasting sorrow, and a reminder of how sudden and unexpected heart disease can be — even in relatively young adults.