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Creed (film series)

Creed is an American sports drama film series that began with *Creed* (2015), a spin-off and sequel to the *Rocky* franchise.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Creed is an American sports drama film series that began with *Creed* (2015), a spin-off and sequel to the *Rocky* franchise. The series follows Adonis Creed, the son of Apollo Creed, and includes three films released between 2015 and 2023.

Overview

The *Creed* film series expands the *Rocky* universe by following Adonis Creed, a young boxer building his career while dealing with the legacy of his father, Apollo Creed. The franchise combines sports drama with family, identity, and mentorship themes.

Films

The series began with *Creed* in 2015, followed by *Creed II* in 2018 and *Creed III* in 2023. The first two films include Rocky Balboa as Adonis's trainer, while the third film continues the story without Stallone's character in the central role.

Development and reception

The first film was directed by Ryan Coogler and established the franchise as a new chapter in the *Rocky* saga. It was noted for reviving interest in the broader boxing-film series and for earning strong reception for performances and direction.

Place in the Rocky franchise

The *Creed* films are part of the larger *Rocky* continuity and are generally treated as sequels and spin-offs rather than a separate universe. They extend the story after *Rocky Balboa* (2006) and focus on the next generation.

Key facts

  • The series is a spin-off continuation of the *Rocky* film franchise.
  • It centres on Adonis Creed, the son of Apollo Creed.
  • Sylvester Stallone appears as Rocky Balboa in the first two films.
  • The trilogy consists of *Creed* (2015), *Creed II* (2018), and *Creed III* (2023).
  • The first film was a critical and commercial success and helped relaunch the franchise.
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Canadian context

The series has Canadian relevance through its broad international theatrical release and enduring popularity on streaming and television in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

What is *Creed*?
*Creed* is a sports drama film series that follows Adonis Creed, the son of Apollo Creed, and serves as a spin-off sequel to the *Rocky* franchise.
How many *Creed* films are there?
There are three *Creed* films: *Creed* (2015), *Creed II* (2018), and *Creed III* (2023).
Who created the series?
The first film was directed by Ryan Coogler and written by Coogler with Aaron Covington.
Is *Creed* part of the *Rocky* franchise?
Yes. The *Creed* films are part of the wider *Rocky* franchise and continue its storyline.
Who plays Adonis Creed?
Adonis Creed is played by Michael B. Jordan throughout the series.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Creed_(film)
    Supports: First film details, release year, director, cast, and franchise relationship.
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocky_(franchise)
    Supports: Placement of the Creed films within the Rocky franchise and trilogy structure.
  3. Rotten Tomatoes — https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/creed_2015
    Supports: Synopsis, cast, and release information for Creed (2015).
  4. Netflix Tudum — https://www.netflix.com/tudum/articles/rocky-creed-movies
    Supports: Story premise of the first film and franchise context.
  5. Time — https://www.time.com/6259594/creed-3-rocky-franchise/
    Supports: Creed III's place in the Rocky franchise and series context.