Sylvester Stallone

Jackie Stallone, mother to actor Sylvester, dies at 98

The larger-than-life character, who was known as an astrologer and wrestling promoter, "died in her sleep as she wished," said her youngest son, Frank.

"It was hard not to like her, she was a very eccentric and flamboyant person," he added in an Instagram post.

"Her mind was razor sharp until the day she died."

Born Jacqueline Frances Labofish on 29 November 1921, Stallone ran away from her home in Washington DC as a 15-year-old to join the circus.

Sylvester Stallone 'flattered' by Donald Trump job link

Several publications suggested last week that the president-elect would offer the star a top job in the arts.

In a statement, Stallone said he was "incredibly flattered to have been suggested to be involved with the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA)".

But the star said he would prefer to highlight issues faced by US veterans.