Famous actor spotted in NC, video shows. Where, and why was he here?
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- The “Spider-Man” star was spotted in Graham, North Carolina.
- The Oscar-nominated actor signed posters, took photos with fans and watched a movie.
- Work on a film project could start in March.
Actor James Franco was spotted in a North Carolina town, to the delight of its former mayor.
The Oscar-nominated star was in Graham to scout out locations for an upcoming film project, according to videos posted Saturday, Feb. 21 on Facebook.
“I’ve always said that Graham feels like a Hallmark movie — especially at Christmas time — and it’s wonderful to see others recognize its special charm,” Jennifer Talley, a business owner who served as the town’s mayor from 2021 to 2025, wrote on social media. “James Franco was incredibly kind and truly appreciated Graham for its small-town atmosphere.”
Why was James Franco in Graham, NC?
Franco signed movie posters, took photos with fans and looked at potential filming sites around downtown Graham, a roughly 25-mile drive east from Greensboro. He also ventured to nearby Burlington and Mebane, Talley told The News & Observer via Facebook Messenger.
Then, he stayed in town to watch a movie at the Graham Cinema. But it wasn’t just any movie — he was checking out one of his brother’s films.
“Watching the movie ‘Regretting You’ starring Dave Franco with the actual James Franco was not on my 2026 bingo card but wow I’ll take it,” Graham Cinema wrote on Facebook.
Talley said the nearly century-old theater “has survived despite nine months of closure during covid, the rise of streaming services and early movie releases. It continues to be a community resource for so many that truly treasure it.”
Talley said the actor — known for his roles in “Spider-Man” and “Pineapple Express” — is expected to be in a comedy that may start filming in March. She didn’t share the name of the project.
“Due to EDPNC (Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina) policy and the highly competitive nature of economic development, we do not comment on projects that may or may not be considering North Carolina,” Guy Gaster, director of the N.C. Film Office, told The News & Observer via email.
Graham — home to roughly 19,000 people — is in Alamance County.
The News & Observer reached out to a publicist believed to be representing Franco and is awaiting a response.
This story was originally published February 24, 2026 at 11:07 AM with the headline "Famous actor spotted in NC, video shows. Where, and why was he here?."
