'Creed' Star Sylvester Stallone Wins First Golden Globe For Playing Rocky Balboa, Didn't Thank Two Key People

In 1977 a young Sylvester Stallone was nominated for a Golden Globe his role as the intrepid Philadelphia boxer Rocky Balboa in the now classic film “Rocky” — but didn’t win. However, nearly four decades later, the star took the stage at the 73rd annual show to accept the prize for reprising Rocky Balboa in “Creed.”

At long last, after seven movies in the franchise, Stallone’s return to the character in a supporting role in “Creed” has finally earned him the prestigious award for Best Performance by an Actor in Supporting Role in a Motion Picture. The 69-year-old actor took the stage to accept the award with his wife and three daughters sitting in the crowd. The often humble writer of films like “The Expendables” thanked everyone imaginable, including family and creative partners.

“I’m the sum total of everyone I’ve ever met,” the actor said.

Unfortunately, some people who saw the speech noticed that the actor’s long list of people to thank didn’t include “Creed” director Ryan Coogler or the film’s principal star Michael B. Jordan. Although the star has previously said nice things about both the director and his co-star (via GQ), some fans, and stars, on Twitter took notice that the actor left them out of the speech.

However, Stallone didn’t neglect to remember one key, albeit “imaginary,” person that was perhaps the most responsible for his award at the Jan. 10 show — Rocky Balboa.

“I want to thank my imaginary friend Rocky Balboa for being the best friend I ever had.”

Want to watch the Golden Globes online? Check out live stream information HERE. For a full list of nominees click HERE.