James Franco has opened a TikTok account, posting a series of mysterious videos talking about “crazy stuff going on”.
The actor spent much of the 2000s and 2010s as one of Hollywood’s most in-demand stars, thanks to movies such as Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man trilogy, comedy Pineapple Express, and 127 Hours. However, in 2018 accusations of sexual misconduct emerged against him, resulting in a 2021 lawsuit that was settled out of court. Franco denied all allegations at the time, but later discussed them publicly.
Since the allegations, he has remained away from the spotlight, ending his long-running friendship with collaborator Seth Rogen, and primarily appearing in low budget independent productions. His last major role in a widely released movie was 2017’s The Disaster Artist, in which he played Tommy Wiseau, the creator of the movie The Room.
Now, he has opened a TikTok account and released an initial video where he is wearing a blue shirt with the name “Bruce Robinson” written on it. “Hey guys, this is James Franco. Me, really James Franco. I’m here at my house. I’m not promoting anything, OK? I’m making this account because, alright, some serious, some serious shit’s going on. OK, and look here, this is real. OK, I’m real. It’s me, not AI, not anything. OK? Could AI James do this?”
@jamesfranco2319 I can’t say to much right now. But stick around and I promise it will all make sense.
He then writes his account name, @jamesfranco2319, on a piece of paper, before continuing: “This is me. OK. For those who know. Alright. Some serious stuff going on; that’s why I’m contacting you, that’s why I’m doing this. OK? I know, I maybe seem crazy, like, why, what’s going on, what’s the gimmick? No, this is real. Real. OK, I can’t say too much right now. I just need you to follow me, then I’ll know who’s down, and I’m going to show you some crazy stuff. OK? Just follow me, I’m gonna, I’m going to show you.”
As of June 12, he has posted seven videos, all in the same shirt, insisting that “there’s some crazy stuff going on” but not elaborating on the details. The number 2319, which appears in Franco’s username, is also the title of one of the most watched video, with over 10million views. It is a series of shots of him staring at the camera. Despite insisting that he is not promoting anything, the only two accounts he follows are for his forthcoming movie Love Meets In The Sunshine, and that film’s director, Christian Guiton.
@jamesfranco2319 The next video I’m telling you what I saw. I promise!
His most recent video sees his standing in a room insisting “I’m not making it up though, I’m not making this up.” Viewer comments range from concern to scepticism, with many pointing out the connection with his forthcoming film.