Billy Drago, whose real name was William Eugene Burrows Jr., was born on September 18, 1945, in Hugoton, Kansas. He began his acting career in the 1970s and soon gained recognition for his intense and villainous roles in movies and television shows. Drago’s distinctive looks, piercing eyes, and deep, raspy voice made him a natural fit for playing dark and sinister characters.
Sylvester Stallone, on the other hand, needs no introduction. Born on July 6, 1946, in New York City, Stallone is one of Hollywood’s most iconic action heroes. He rose to fame with his Academy Award-nominated performance in “Rocky” (1976) and solidified his status with memorable characters like John Rambo in the “Rambo” series.
The paths of Billy Drago and Sylvester Stallone crossed in the late 1980s when they both starred in the action thriller “Delta Force 2” (1990). Drago played a ruthless drug lord while Stallone portrayed a military operative seeking revenge. Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, and their performances received critical acclaim.
Their friendship truly blossomed during the filming of “The Expendables” series. Stallone created and directed the first installment of the franchise, released in 2010. This action-packed film brought together an all-star cast of iconic action heroes, including Jason Statham, Jet Li, Dolph Lundgren, and Bruce Willis. Stallone saw Drago as a perfect fit to join the ensemble and reach new heights in the character development.
Sadly, Billy Drago passed away on June 24, 2019, at the age of 73. His death was a great loss for the entertainment industry, but also for Sylvester Stallone who lost a dear friend. Stallone took to social media to express his grief, remembering Drago as a talented actor, a loyal friend, and a kind-hearted person.
Stallone’s post read, “Billy was a unique talent and a true gentleman. He elevated every scene he was in and made our movies better. Beyond his incredible acting skills, he was a dear friend who will be missed tremendously. Rest in peace, my friend.”
Throughout their friendship, Billy Drago and Sylvester Stallone supported each other’s careers and collaborated on various projects. Stallone often praised Drago’s acting abilities and admired his dedication to his craft. Drago, in turn, acknowledged Stallone’s talent and appreciated the opportunities he provided.
Their bond extended beyond the film sets as they often spent time together at industry events, sharing stories and laughter. Both actors understood the challenges and demands of their profession, and this common ground strengthened their friendship.
In conclusion, the friendship between Billy Drago and Sylvester Stallone was a testament to the profound connection that can develop between two individuals who admire and support each other. Their shared experiences in the entertainment industry brought them closer together, and their friendship left an indelible mark on both their personal lives and their careers. While Billy Drago may no longer be with us, his memory and the moments they shared will forever be cherished by Stallone and all those who had the pleasure of witnessing their friendship in action.