James Franco signs on for art-related TV series on Ovation

Between his gigs in front of the camera as an actor and increasingly behind the camera as a director, not to mention his writing career and a highly anticipated Comedy Central roast, James Franco will find the time to host a new art-related series for the Ovation cable station.

“James Franco Presents,” which is scheduled to premiere in November, will follow Franco on his exploration of gallery exhibitions, his personal videos and other pet art projects. “It is an art show that is an art piece, meaning the show has synched with the rhythms of my life and work,” said Franco in a release.

Ovation said the series will feature Franco’s video diaries -- “thousands of hours from James’ personal video library will be showcased” -- as well as footage from his most ambitious art films and interactions with his “heroes” from every artistic genre.

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In the past, Franco has shown his interest in visual art through his collaborations with Jeffrey Deitch at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles, including a 2012 exhibition entitled “Rebel” inspired by the 1955 movie “Rebel Without a Cause.” He has also created his own artwork, including the video piece “My Own Private River,” which focuses on the late River Phoenix and the movie “My Own Private Idaho.”

Ovation said that Franco will host and executive produce the series. In addition to a memorably sleazy performance in Harmony Korine’s “Spring Breakers” this year, Franco had directed three movies that will soon see commercial or festival releases -- “As I Lay Dying,” “Interior. Leather Bar” and “Child of God.”

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