Actor and musician Frank Stallone expresses grave concerns about safety in his adopted home state of California, where he now secures his windows and locks due to rising crime rates.
According to Fox News, the brother of Hollywood star Sylvester Stallone likens the current state of California to the dystopian science fiction film Escape from New York, describing the deteriorating conditions of downtown Los Angeles marked by extensive homelessness, widespread graffiti, and mounting garbage.
Stallone, who moved to California in 1979, recalls a time when the state embodied the idyllic vision portrayed in The Mamas & the Papas' "California Dreamin'." The stark contrast between that era and today's reality has left him deeply concerned about the direction of his adopted home state.
The actor directs his criticism toward the state's current leadership, particularly targeting Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. He questions their priorities and effectiveness in addressing the state's pressing issues.
Bass recently faced significant backlash for her handling of the devastating wildfires that struck the Los Angeles area in early 2025. Her absence during the crisis, while attending a presidential inauguration in Ghana, drew sharp criticism from residents and local leaders alike.
The city's response to the fires was further complicated by reports of non-functioning fire hydrants in the Pacific Palisades area, leading to questions about infrastructure maintenance and emergency preparedness.
Stallone paints a vivid picture of the homeless situation plaguing California's urban areas, describing scenes of unauthorized encampments and deteriorating sanitary conditions that affect daily life.
The actor advocates for a more assertive approach to addressing homelessness, suggesting the implementation of job programs to help able-bodied individuals return to the workforce. He specifically mentions the potential for employing homeless individuals in city cleanup efforts.
Frank Stallone shares his perspective on the current situation, stating:
I mean, this is such a beautiful state. Beautiful. We got the mountains, we got snow, we got the ocean. We've got everything. It's just run wrong… I mean, the crime. It's just ridiculous. You know, $900 you can steal and nothing happens. But that, to me, is I'm lost on that one. You know, when I was a kid, you stole a candy bar, you get a kick in the butt.
The approaching 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles adds urgency to addressing these urban challenges. Stallone expresses worry about the city's readiness to host such a prestigious international event.
He suggests Rick Caruso, a Los Angeles real estate developer who previously ran against Bass for mayor, would make an excellent gubernatorial candidate. Stallone believes Caruso's experience as a builder and visionary could help address the state's numerous challenges.
The current situation has prompted Caruso to criticize the city's management, particularly during the recent wildfires. His assessment of the emergency response painted a concerning picture of resource allocation and leadership.
Frank Stallone's criticism of California's current state reflects growing concerns about public safety, homelessness, and leadership in the Golden State. The actor, who has witnessed the state's transformation since 1979, now takes extraordinary security measures at his residence due to escalating crime rates and deteriorating urban conditions. The situation has broader implications for California's future, particularly as Los Angeles prepares to host the 2028 Olympics. With multiple challenges, including homelessness, crime, and emergency response capabilities, state and local leaders face mounting pressure to implement effective solutions before the international spotlight shines on the city during the global sporting event.
