Table of Contents
Early Life and Death
Douglas Eugene Franco, the father of renowned actor and filmmaker James Franco, played a significant role in shaping the lives and careers of his children. Born on February 20, 1948, in Glencoe, Cook County, Illinois, USA, Douglas passed away on September 26, 2011, in Palo Alto, Santa Clara County, California, at the age of 63. Although the cause of his death remains unknown, it is believed that he suffered a heart attack.
Douglas was laid to rest on September 30, 2011, at Alta Mesa Memorial Park in Palo Alto, Santa Clara County, California. His parents, Daniel Franco, Jr., and Marjorie Franco, were of Portuguese (from Madeira) and Swedish descent, adding to the family’s rich cultural heritage.
A Life of Achievement
Douglas Eugene Franco was a highly accomplished individual. He reportedly held a Harvard MBA and made a name for himself as a businessman and entrepreneur in Silicon Valley. Known as a “philanthropic entrepreneur,” he was passionate about giving back to the community and making a positive impact.
In 1971, Douglas married Betsy Franco, a children’s book author and occasional actress. Betsy, who also goes by the name Betsy Franco-Feeney, has an impressive career in writing, producing, and acting. She has received numerous awards and accolades for her work, including the ALA Best Book for Young Adults and the New York Public Library Book for the Teen Age.
Children and Their Success
Douglas and Betsy Franco’s union resulted in the birth of three remarkable sons who have all made names for themselves in the entertainment industry.
James Franco
James Edward Franco, born on April 19, 1978, in Palo Alto, California, is a multi-talented individual. He has gained recognition as an actor, producer, director, writer, painter, and philanthropist. James’s passion for acting began during his time at Palo Alto High School, where he regularly appeared in plays.
After attending the University of California, Los Angeles, James Franco embarked on a successful acting career. He has been involved in numerous notable films, including the Spider-Man trilogy (2002–2007), Milk (2008), Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011), Spring Breakers (2012), and Oz the Great and Powerful (2013). His exceptional talent earned him several award nominations and wins, including a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor for his role in The Disaster Artist (2017).
Tom Franco
Thomas Andrew Franco, born on April 14, 1980, in Palo Alto, California, also pursued a career in the arts. He is an actor and artist who founded the Firehouse Art Collective in Berkeley, California. Tom’s involvement in the entertainment industry began with his appearance in the comedy horror film Basket Case 2 (1990).
Tragically, Tom Franco experienced the loss of his wife, Julia Lazar Franco, who passed away due to liver failure and kidney trouble. He has since remarried, and his wife is Iris Torres, a film producer. Tom continues to explore his creative talents and make valuable contributions to the art community.
Dave Franco
Born on June 12, 1985, in Palo Alto, California, David John Franco has made a name for himself as an actor, voice actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. He rose to prominence with his supporting role in the buddy comedy film 21 Jump Street (2012).
Dave Franco has been involved in various successful films, including Fright Night (2011), Now You See Me (2013) and its sequel Now You See Me 2 (2016), Neighbors (2014), Nerve (2016), The Disaster Artist (2017), and Day Shift (2022). He ventured into directing with his debut film, The Rental, which featured his wife, Alison Brie, in a leading role.
A Lasting Legacy
Douglas Eugene Franco may no longer be with us, but his impact on his children’s lives and their subsequent achievements continues to resonate. Through his support and encouragement, James, Tom, and Dave Franco have become highly successful figures in the entertainment industry, each forging their own unique paths. The Franco family’s artistic talents and dedication to their craft have left an indelible mark on the world of film and the arts.
