Seth Rogen has dealt the final blow to any hopes of reviving their once unstoppable partnership – he's made it crystal clear that there won't be a sequel to Pineapple Express, nor any other future collaborations with James Franco. The comedian, known for his irreverent humour and laid-back charm, has reaffirmed his decision to cut ties with the embattled actor in light of multiple allegations of sexual misconduct against him.
The allegations, which surfaced in 2018, were a game-changer for Franco's career – once on the cusp of stardom following roles in the Spider-Man trilogy and a well-deserved Oscar nod for his gutsy performance in 127 Hours. The fallout was catastrophic; he denied the claims initially but eventually settled a lawsuit out of court, with Franco later addressing the allegations publicly. Since then, his public profile has been in freefall, relegated to smaller independent productions that lack the glamour and recognition he once enjoyed.
In an exclusive chat with The New York Times, Rogen gave a candid rundown of their situation – confessing they hadn't spoken "in a long time" and reiterating his no-go on future collaborations. He acknowledged the complexity and nuance surrounding the allegations but made it clear that his stance is consistent: he's moved on from their professional partnership years ago and sees no benefit in revisiting the past.
The duo's partnership, which began over two decades ago with Freaks and Geeks, produced a string of box office hits that delighted UK audiences. From the hilarious teen comedy to the polarising The Interview (now available on Netflix), their creative chemistry was undeniable – even if some projects sparked controversy. Rogen's latest statement serves as a reminder that, despite Franco's attempts to re-engage with the public sphere, his former partner remains resolute in his decision, signifying a permanent shift in their professional dynamic.