Dave Franco 'Open' to Playing Luigi Mangione — With One Condition

After Luigi was charged in connection to the fatal shooting of UnitedHealth CEO Brian Thompson, people linked him to the actor based on their striking resemblance.

August 8, 2025

Dave Franco has said he would be "open" to playing Luigi Mangione on screen — but with a slight caveat.

During his appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen to promote his film Together with co-star and wife Alison Brie, Franco was asked about his interest in portraying the man who has been charged in connection to the fatal shooting of UnitedHealth CEO Brian Thompson.

After initially struggling to figure out a way to respond to the question, the 40-year-old actor said he's receptive to the idea, but it would depend on who else was attached to the project.

"Let's just say, I'm open, if it's the right people, and let's leave it at that," he responded.

After Mangione was identified as a person of interest in Thompson's death, people were quick to notice how much he and Franco looked alike. The actor then revealed earlier this year that anyone who has his phone number contacted him about his striking resemblance to Mangione.

"I have never received more texts in my life about anything," he said. "Anyone who has my phone number has reached out about it."

Mangione pleaded not guilty to federal murder and stalking charges in April, as reported by CBS News. Attorney General Pam Bondi released a statement that same month in which she stated federal prosectors have been directed to seek the death penalty. According to the New York Times, Mangione's lawyers requested that the court bar the directive, arguing that Bondi's statement served as a publicity stunt for her Instagram.

Mangione is scheduled to appear in court for his New York case on September 16.