James Franco | Source: Getty Images
James Franco, 47, Makes His Latest Hollywood Appearance, Stunning Fans With His 'Different Look' — Then & Now Photos
This popular 1990s actor returns to the public eye to promote a new play, with a noticeably changed appearance, drawing attention across social media.
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Actor and filmmaker James Franco recently made a rare appearance in Hollywood this week to promote his new stage project, "Desert Films."
The actor, who has stayed out of the spotlight in recent years, was photographed with a fan at the venue. It marked one of his first public events in a long time.
In the image posted by TMZ, Franco wears a tan cap and dark casual clothes. He stands beside a smiling fan in a warmly lit space. The photo quickly went viral, not just for his return, but for how different he looked.
His face appeared thinner, with deeper lines, sparking instant reactions online. One Facebook viewer wrote, "I didn't even recognize him and thought that was a 60yo [sic] man initially 🙊"
Reactions on X were just as blunt."What in the Ozempic, Botox, Filler world happened to James Franco? He just disappeared and now he's back looking 70 years old [sic] ," someone else posted. Another added, "He looks different."
As conversations around his appearance continue, a look back at James Franco's evolution through the years offers perspective on his transformation.
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1999
With tousled hair and a casual pose, James Franco appears as Daniel Desario in "Freaks and Geeks," the cult classic that introduced his laid-back charm to TV audiences everywhere.
2005
Dressed in a sleek black suit and gray tie, Franco beams during a film Q&A. His confident smile and charisma reflect his growing status in Hollywood at the height of his early fame.
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2025
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Wearing a heavy coat and trimmed hair, Franco attends the Torino Film Festival. His serious expression and updated look drew renewed attention after time away from the spotlight.
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