James Franco Makes Major Studio Return with Rambo Prequel Role

James Franco is making a significant return to Hollywood's biggest productions.

The 48-year-old has joined the cast of the forthcoming Rambo prequel John Rambo, which carries the executive producer stamp of Sylvester Stallone, the franchise's original star. Though Franco's part is reported to be relatively small, it represents his first major studio venture since his brief appearance in 2017's Alien: Covenant.

Speaking with reporters at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, Franco weighed in on the film's timeline, noting it won't arrive this summer but rather expects completion by late 2026 or spring-summer 2027.

Noah Centineo takes on the lead role of John Rambo in the prequel, directed by Jalmari Helander, whose credits include Sisu. David Harbour has also recently signed on to the project.

Franco has maintained a lower profile in recent years despite working on smaller independent productions. He appeared in the Italian film Hey Joe and is set to portray Fidel Castro in the upcoming Castro's Daughter.

The actor is attending Cannes for the third consecutive year, this time accompanied by girlfriend Izabel Pakzad.