James Franco talks about his relationship with his former friend and collaborator Set Rogen.
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James and Seth’s relationship dates back to the late ’90s, when they… meet on Freaks and nerds. They would work together on various projects, such as Pineapple Express And This is the endbefore their relationship stalled due to sexual misconduct claims against James.
James was sued in 2019 by students at his now-defunct drama school, Studio 4, alleging harassment and sexual exploitation. He denied the claims and the lawsuit was reportedly dismissed organized in 2021 for $2.2 million per CNBC.
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Seth admitted the allegations had affected his relationship with James at the time.
“I despise abuse and intimidation,” he says told the Sunday Times, “and I would never cover up or conceal the actions of someone who does it, or knowingly put someone in a situation where he or she was near such a person.”
He also said he had “no plans” for future collaborations with James.
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Today, James says he and Seth are still estranged. “I haven’t spoken to Seth,” he said recently told Variety.
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“I love Seth, we had 20 great years together, but I think it’s over,” he added. ‘And not because he didn’t try. I told him how much he means to me.”
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When asked if he felt his treatment in Hollywood was unfair, James replied: “I mean, it is what it is. I’ve moved past it, to be honest. It’s dealt with and I have to change. So that’s it, it’s over .” I mean, I’ve worked in the US too, so I’m just trying to move on.”
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You can read the full interview here.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual abuse, you can call the emergency room National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673), which will direct the caller to the nearest sexual assault service provider. You can also search for your local center here.