Dave Franco Thought First “Now You See Me” Would Fail, Says He and His Costars ‘Literally Cheersed to the End of Our Careers’

During a recent interview, actor Dave Franco shared reflections on the early days of filming for the much-loved magic-heist franchise, Now You See Me. Despite its eventual success, the cast initially harboured doubts about the film’s potential to resonate with audiences.

In a segment of the YouTube series Hot Ones, hosted by Sean Evans, Franco recounted the chaotic atmosphere that permeated the set on the first day of production. The actor, now 41, recalled feeling a lack of confidence in the film’s direction. “At the end of the first day, it was such chaos trying to figure it out that we all went out to dinner and literally cheersed to the end of our careers,” he said, illustrating the uncertain mood that hung over the cast.

Now You See Me was released in 2013 and quickly became a box office success, a fact that took the cast by surprise. The film features a group of talented illusionists—the Four Horsemen—who utilise their magical skills to conduct extravagant heists, all the while performing for captivated audiences. Franco stars as Jack Wilder, a young magician and pickpocket who is part of this illustrious group.

The stellar ensemble includes well-known actors like Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, and Isla Fisher. Mark Ruffalo plays the role of an FBI agent desperately trying to uncover the secrets behind their seemingly impossible feats. The initial uncertainty about the project starkly contrasts with its outcome, as it became a surprise hit and prompted the creation of a sequel in 2016, Now You See Me 2.

Franco expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to continue the story. “Cut to fifteen years later, we’ve done three of these things with a forthcoming,” he noted, indicating that the adventure isn’t over just yet. He confirmed that the upcoming instalment, Now You See Me: Now You Don’t, is likely to be the last in the franchise.

With the latest film recently released in November 2025, Franco found himself reflecting on his professional journey through the series. He spoke about the unpredictability of the film industry and how his earlier experience had shaped his expectations. “I’ve learned over the years to never have expectations,” he advised. The lessons he gathered from his early experiences have led him to embrace a more laid-back approach to subsequent film releases.

Franco explained that the anticipation of a film’s release has become less daunting for him. “I hope it does well. I’m going to push this as hard as I can, but who knows?” This sentiment reflects the inherent unpredictability that accompanies Hollywood projects, and Franco has come to find comfort in that uncertainty.

His perspective seems to revolve around giving audiences the ultimate power to determine a film’s fate. “It’s just letting go and allowing,” he said, highlighting a commendable acceptance of the unpredictable nature of the industry.

In addition to the Now You See Me franchise, Franco is busy with new projects. He is currently starring in the comedy Idiots, which debuted in theatres on 28 August 2026. Additionally, he lends his voice to a character in DreamWorks Animation’s upcoming release, Forgotten Island, which is set to arrive in cinemas on 25 September 2026.

As Franco continues to evolve as an actor, the lessons he has learned from the highs and lows of his career remind us all of the unpredictable journey that is life in the entertainment industry.