Roy Keane, the former Celtic star, showed a rare softer side when Hollywood legend Sylvester Stallone appeared on the latest episode of The Overlap. The famously no-nonsense pundit, who spent a brief spell at Celtic late in his playing career, dropped his tough-guy persona as the Rocky and Rambo actor joined the show.
Keane, 54, is better known for his straight-talking approach and frosty attitude toward fans who approach him in public than for showing admiration for celebrities. Yet he appeared to be a genuine fanboy as Stallone joined Keane, Gary Neville, Jill Scott and Ian Wright on the podcast.
Stallone's Special Guest Status
The group revealed that Stallone was the only guest they had ever travelled specifically to meet, although Keane initially tried to downplay his excitement. The Irishman was wearing a T-shirt featuring Stallone as Rambo, giving away his enthusiasm before the Hollywood star arrived. When Jill pointed out the shirt, Keane admitted he was a big fan of the film.
Neville then asked whether Keane would turn into a "fawning schoolboy" when Stallone appeared. "No, Gary, don't be silly, I'm a professional," Keane replied, before adding after a pause: "He might sign it for me."
A Rare Starstruck Moment
When Stallone walked into the room, Keane could be seen straightening his shirt, prompting fans to remark on the unusual sight of the stern pundit looking genuinely starstruck. Stallone noticed Keane's clothing choice and told him: "Nice shirt."
The group then discussed Stallone's Hollywood career, his rivalry with Arnold Schwarzenegger, and his views on the greatest actor of all time. The full episode has yet to be released, leaving fans waiting to find out whether Keane secured the autograph he appeared to want.
Keane's Reputation with Fans
Keane has built a reputation for having little patience for fans seeking photographs or autographs in public. This attitude recently made headlines after a fan claimed he received the "full Roy Keane experience" at Cork Airport. The supporter said he called out to Keane for a photograph and received a stern response about approaching him in public while he was trying to be discreet.
Keane addressed the incident on The Overlap, saying: "What is it? What do you want me to do? The guy was a pest! What is funny about? What am I supposed to do, do a dance for people?" He added: "They're shouting your name out loud. What are you shouting my name for? Just come over and be polite. He knew what game he was playing."
With Stallone, however, Keane appeared more than happy to make an exception, showing that even one of football's most intimidating personalities can have his own Hollywood hero.
