James Franco apparently filmed a role for Lionsgate's weird Rambo prequel

Lionsgate is apparently about to change that, though, as Variety reports that Franco will appear in the studio’s upcoming Rambo prequel John Rambo. Franco was reportedly making the rounds at Cannes this week when he told Deadline he’d filmed a role in a “big studio movie” that was later confirmed to be Rambo, which stars Noah Centineo as the younger version of Sylvester Stallone’s action hero. It’s not clear yet what role Franco will play in the prequel, which will also feature David Harbour as the character played by Richard Crenna in the original Rambo movies, although the part is being described as a “small role.” The film began filming in January of 2026 and reportedly wrapped earlier this month, with an eye toward a 2027 release.

John Rambo is being helmed by Sisu director Jalmari Helander, from a script by Rory Haines and Sohrab Noshirvani. The film, which is being pitched as an “origin story” for Rambo, is also set to co-star Yao, Jason Tobin, Quincy Isaiah, Jefferson White, and recent White Lotus standout Tayme Thapthimthong.