Following his lead role in the franchise’s reboot in 2011, James Franco was noticeably absent from the sequel, “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes.”
In the first installment, “Rise of the Planet of the Apes,” Franco portrayed Dr. William “Will” Rodman, a scientist involved in Caesar’s upbringing and the search for a cure for his father’s Alzheimer’s disease.
Despite his significant role in the first film, Franco’s character is conspicuously missing from the sequel, prompting questions about his absence.
One possible reason for Franco’s absence is the storyline of “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes,” which takes place ten years after the events of the first film during a widespread outbreak of the Simian Flu. The film implies that Franco’s character, Will, may have died from the virus, as indicated by an “X” painted on his house, signifying infection.
Additionally, the change in directors between the two films may have contributed to Franco’s absence. Matt Reeves took over as director for “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes,” replacing Rupert Wyatt, who directed the first film.
In a 2012 interview, Franco mentioned that he was initially intended to have a small role in the sequel under Wyatt’s direction. However, changes in leadership and the departure of key personnel from the project resulted in uncertainty about Franco’s involvement.
Despite not appearing in “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes,” Franco’s character is referenced indirectly throughout the film. There are mentions of Will and his involvement in the creation of the Simian Flu, and a touching scene shows Caesar watching old footage of himself and Will.
Although Franco’s cameo in the sequel was uncredited, fans noted references to his character in subsequent films like “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes.” However, given recent controversies surrounding Franco and Disney’s acquisition of the franchise, it’s unlikely that he will return in future installments.
“Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is set to hit theaters on May 10, continuing the epic saga of the Planet of the Apes franchise.
