Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to James Franco

Controversies are a part of history. Explore the biggest scandals linked to James Franco.

James Franco is an American actor and filmmaker known for his diverse roles in both mainstream and independent cinema. He gained prominence in Sam Raimi's Spider-Man trilogy and has starred in films like Milk, Eat Pray Love, and Rise of the Planet of the Apes. A frequent collaborator with Seth Rogen, he has appeared in comedies such as Pineapple Express, This Is the End, and The Interview. Franco received critical acclaim and a Golden Globe for his performance in The Disaster Artist, and an Academy Award nomination for 127 Hours, solidifying his status as a versatile and accomplished performer.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

February 27, 2011: Hosting the 83rd Academy Awards

On February 27, 2011, James Franco co-hosted the 83rd Academy Awards with Anne Hathaway. They were chosen to attract a younger audience, but Franco's performance was heavily criticized for his perceived lack of energy and disinterest. He later addressed the criticism, stating he never had high hopes for the job and denying allegations of being under the influence.

2011: Media Coverage and Misquotes

In 2011, James Franco addressed frequent media coverage, particularly regarding his interest in colleges, and claimed to have been misquoted by news outlets. This led to a parody on SNL's Weekend Update.

September 2012: Defamation Lawsuit

In September 2012, José Angel Santana, a professor, filed a lawsuit against James Franco for defamation after being terminated from his position, claiming that Franco's comments were false and led to his termination.

2014: Controversy over Messages with a Minor

In 2014, James Franco faced controversy after screenshots of alleged messages between him and a seventeen-year-old girl were posted on Instagram. Franco admitted to writing the messages and later stated he was "embarrassed" and "learned my lesson."

2014: Allegations on Instagram

In 2014, a 17-year-old girl posted screenshots of alleged messages between her and James Franco on Instagram, alleging inappropriate behavior.

January 9, 2018: New York Times Cancels Event

On January 9, 2018, The New York Times canceled a planned event with James Franco due to the allegations.

January 11, 2018: Allegations of Inappropriate Behavior

On January 11, 2018, the Los Angeles Times reported that five women were accusing James Franco of inappropriate or sexually exploitative behavior during the period when Franco was serving as their acting teacher or mentor.

2018: Criticism at the Golden Globe Awards

At the 2018 Golden Globe Awards, James Franco wore a Time's Up pin and immediately drew criticism on social media from actress Ally Sheedy and allegations from a former girlfriend, Violet Paley, resulting in allegations of sexual harassment.

2018: Busy Philipps' Memoir Account

In 2018, Busy Philipps recounted in her memoir that James Franco screamed at her and violently shoved her to the ground on the set of Freaks and Geeks.

2018: Accusations of Inappropriate Behavior

In 2018, the Los Angeles Times reported that five women accused James Franco of inappropriate or sexually exploitative behavior while he was their acting teacher or mentor.

October 3, 2019: Lawsuit Filed Against Franco

On October 3, 2019, two former students of James Franco's Studio 4 filed a lawsuit against him and his partners, alleging sexual exploitation under the guise of education. The lawsuit claimed students were subjected to sexually exploitative auditions and film shoots and pressured into simulated sexual acts.

February 21, 2021: Lawsuit Settlement Reported

On February 21, 2021, news outlets reported that James Franco's lawsuit with former students had been settled. The settlement documents were filed on February 11, and both students agreed to drop their claims.

March 15, 2021: Settlement Submitted for Court Approval

On March 15, 2021, the settlement deal between James Franco and his former students was submitted for preliminary court approval.

April 2021: Charlyne Yi's Statement

In April 2021, Charlyne Yi stated they attempted to quit 'The Disaster Artist' over allegations against James Franco. Yi claimed the filmmakers responded by offering them a larger role which they saw as an attempted bribe.

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June 2021: Terms of Settlement Revealed

In June 2021, the terms of James Franco's settlement were revealed, indicating that he would pay over $2.2 million to resolve two legal disputes, pending a judge's approval.