Student Katie Ryan said:
“[Franco] would always make everybody think there were possible roles on the table if we were to perform sexual acts or take off our shirts.”
Franco’s lawyer responded that the actor had never requested Chmiel and Dusome take off their shirts, and that Franco was “not aware that any of the actions alleged by Ms. Ryan ever occurred.”
On Colbert, Franco promised to make restitutions wherever applicable, adding that the key to reconciliation and forward momentum is listening.
“The way I live my life, I can’t live if there’s restitution to be made. I will make it. So if I’ve done something wrong, I will fix it. I have to. I mean, I think that’s how that works. I mean, as far as the bigger issues, you know, how we do it, I really don’t have the answers and I think the point of this whole thing is that we listen. You know, there were incredible people talking that night. They had a lot to say, and I’m here to listen and learn and change my perspective where it’s off, and I’m completely willing and want to.”
It will be interesting to see how this develops, and if any other women come forward to accuse James Franco of sexual misconduct. A tweet by aforementioned actor Violet Paley promises that “there are a lot more details that will be out soon” and that she is “working with people to do it in the best, safest way.” Is the Time Up on James Franco?