In the final months of 2017, sexual allegations against some of the most powerful men in Hollywood were brought to the forefront of American news. Film producer Harvey Weinstein was among the first Hollywood elites accused of rape and sexual assault followed by a wave of other high-profile men in the same respected professions. Labeled as the ‘Weinstein effect,’ this succession of events has generated an uproar in Hollywood. In the midst of accusations still arising as 2018 progresses, James Franco, American actor and filmmaker, is among the most recent to undergo sexual allegations brought to the attention by five women.

Franco, 39, was just recently awarded a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Comedy or Musical in the hours before accusations against him surfaced. Sparked by this same surge of misconduct in Hollywood, Franco partook in the “Time’s Up” movement at the award show by wearing a pin like most attendees. In the wake of accusations following his Golden Globe award, many are left questioning why Franco would support the “Time’s Up” movement when he is accused of the same sexual misconduct the movement is raising awareness for.  

While allegations progressed and details developed, Franco has since denied any and all accusations pressed against him. During an appearance on “Late Night with Seth Meyers,” Franco renounced the allegations.

“There are people that need to be heard. I have my own side of this story, but I believe in these people that have been underrepresented getting their stories out enough that I will hold back things I could say,” said Franco. “So if I have to take a knock because I’m not going to try and actively refute things, then I will.”

Despite the actor’s attempt to silence the accusations, Franco’s reputation in Hollywood continues to be questioned. At the Critics’ Choice Awards Thursday night, Franco was honored for his performance in “The Disaster Artist,” but opted to obviate himself from the awards altogether. With the Academy Awards fast approaching, speculation has surfaced regarding Franco’s chance at other prestigious awards this season.

Whether the accusations held against Franco are accurate or not, sexual harassment and misconduct in Hollywood remain prominent issues. However, in just the last few months, several women have gained the courage, strength and respect to come forward and stand up for what is right – not just in Hollywood, but across the entire world.