Even with his eyes shaded by glasses, Sylvester Stallone's grief was palpable. As well as close family and friends, the actor had the support of a small knot of fans at the funeral of his son at the weekend.
Well-wishers stood opposite St Martin of Tours Catholic Church in Los Angeles holding pictures of the star with Sage who was 36 when he was found dead at his California home on July 13.
Sage's mother Sasha Czack, who was married to Sly for nine years, looked equally inconsolable. Also in attendance was Jennifer Flavin, the actor's current wife. As the Stallone family celebrated the life of a young man, who was said to be a talented actor and director, questions remain as to why he died.
Toxicology reports are expected in the next few weeks. Early reports suggested his death was linked to prescription pills. But his friend and lawyer, George Braunstein, said Sage never showed any signs of drug use or addiction, and didn't even drink.
Sasha did admit that her son may have taken large amounts of painkillers following dental procedures to remove five teeth in one week. "I told him not to do that. I've heard about people dying having multiple procedures done (to the) mouth," the grieving mother told the New York Post. Do not have more than one tooth (pulled)."
