SAG-AFTRA has responded to allegations that “Tulsa King” star Sylvester Stallone created a “toxic environment” for background actors on the Atlanta set of the Paramount+ series.
“There is no room on any set for sarcastic comments about background actors or any performers,” a SAG-AFTRA spokesperson said in a statement. “Although we have not been contacted directly regarding the incident that occurred on the set of Tulsa King.” In Atlanta, SAG-AFTRA is committed to the safety and well-being of cast members in all productions.
The statement also noted that “SAG-AFTRA's TV/Theatrical Agreements do not cover lead actors in Atlanta,” but the union is “here to provide support with guidance if requested.”
A source close to the production says the matter has been addressed by department heads, with an emphasis on the need for a respectful workplace. Stallone did not comment, and a Paramount spokesperson did not respond diverseRequested comment on the statement issued by SAG-AFTRA.
On Monday, TV writer Julie Benson, who is not affiliated with “Tulsa King,” posted screenshots on She was so disgusted. My friend is worried about work now.@TheSlyStallone What do you have to say for yourself, sir? Far from being disappointed, I'm angry.
One screenshot contained a Facebook post with a blurred username that read: “While working on TK this week, Sylvester Stallone was observed calling the director and saying 'what the hell is up with this ugly background****' [actors].' He and the manager proceeded to call some people horrible names and make fun of them. “A tub of lard”, “A fat man with a cane” and he made fun of their weight and disabilities. I get pretty little girls to be around me,” Sly said.
The other screenshot showed what appeared to be an email from Rose Locke, the casting director for “Tulsa King,” who wrote that she visited the set after being “informed of certain things.” She eventually quit because it was “a very toxic environment and I wasn't comfortable putting myself or my background artists in it.”
“Tulsa King,” created by “Yellowstone” director Taylor Sheridan, is currently filming its second season in Atlanta. The first season of Tulsa King, which premiered in November 2022, was filmed in Oklahoma, where the series is set.