Dave Franco

Biography

Born on June 12, 1985, in Palo Alto, California, David John Franco hails from a creatively inclined family. His mother, Betsy Lou Verne, is a poet, author, and editor, while his father, Douglas Eugene Franco, managed a nonprofit agency and a business. Dave is the youngest of three brothers, with James and Tom Franco also making their marks in the arts. Initially envisioning a career as a high school creative writing teacher, Dave's trajectory shifted when his brother James's manager encouraged him to explore acting during his time at the University of Southern California.

Early Career and Breakthrough

Franco's acting debut came in 2006 with a role on the television series 7th Heaven. He subsequently appeared in shows like Do Not Disturb and Privileged. His portrayal of Cole Aaronson in the ninth season of Scrubs (2009–2010) garnered attention, paving the way for more prominent roles.

In 2012, Franco achieved a significant breakthrough with a supporting role in the action-comedy film 21 Jump Street. This success was followed by performances in Warm Bodies (2013) and Now You See Me (2013), where he played Jack Wilder, a role he reprised in the sequel Now You See Me 2 (2016).

Continued Success and Directorial Debut

Franco's versatility shone through in films like Neighbors (2014) and its sequel Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising (2016), as well as the thriller Nerve (2016). In 2017, he starred alongside his brother James in The Disaster Artist, a film chronicling the making of the cult classic The Room. This collaboration marked a significant moment in his career, blending familial ties with professional endeavors.

Venturing into directing, Franco made his debut with the 2020 horror-thriller The Rental, featuring his wife, actress Alison Brie. The film was well-received, showcasing his talents behind the camera.

Recent Projects and Personal Life

In 2022, Franco appeared in the action-comedy Day Shift, further expanding his filmography. Looking ahead, he is set to reprise his role as Jack Wilder in the upcoming film Now You See Me: Now You Don't (2025), joining original cast members and new additions in the continuation of the magical heist saga.

Franco married Alison Brie in March 2017, and the couple has since collaborated on various projects. Beyond his professional achievements, Franco is known for his down-to-earth personality and dedication to his craft, continually evolving as an actor and filmmaker.