Title: Dave Franco Breaks Silence on Luigi Mangione Biopic Rumors Following Fan Campaign to Cast Him as Alleged Assassin

This version retains the urgency of "breaks silence," clarifies the context of the rumors, and succinctly highlights the fan-driven push for Franco to portray the specific role.

Dave Franco Open to Portraying Alleged CEO Killer Luigi Mangione Amid Fan Casting Buzz
[Image 1: Side-by-side of Franco and Mangione – Caption: "Dave Franco (left) and Luigi Mangione (right) spark fan casting calls due to their striking resemblance."]

Actor Dave Franco, 40, addressed rumors about playing accused CEO killer Luigi Mangione, 27, after fans noted their uncanny likeness. Mangione, an Ivy League graduate and self-proclaimed "anti-capitalist," is charged with murdering United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, 50, outside a Manhattan hotel on December 4, 2024. He has pleaded not guilty to state and federal charges.

Fan Speculation and Franco’s Response
When Mangione was arrested in December 2024, social media erupted with calls for Franco to portray him in a potential true-crime series. On Watch What Happens Live!, Franco said, “No one has approached me yet… Let’s just say I’m open if the right people [are involved].” Fans had flooded platforms like X, with one joking, “Ryan Murphy is drafting an email to Dave Franco as we speak.”

[Image 2: Brian Thompson – Caption: "Victim Brian Thompson, a father-of-two, was killed during a work conference."]

The Crime and Legal Proceedings
Thompson’s murder, captured on surveillance video, occurred during a healthcare conference. Mangione fled but was arrested days later at a Pennsylvania McDonald’s. Prosecutors allege the killing was premeditated, citing Mangione’s diary entries criticizing the healthcare industry and referencing Ted Kaczynski, the “Unabomber.”

Behind Bars: Laptop Access and Diary Entries
[Image 3: Mangione in custody – Caption: "Mangione in February 2025, granted a laptop for trial prep."]
A judge recently approved Mangione’s request for a secured laptop (no internet access) to review case materials. His diary, seized during arrest, revealed chilling plans. An August 2024 entry stated, “The target is insurance. It checks every box,” while an October note counted down to the attack.

Potential Death Penalty
Federal prosecutors plan to seek the death penalty if Mangione is convicted. The case continues to draw attention, blending true-crime intrigue with Hollywood speculation.

[Image 4: Franco on talk show – Caption: "Franco humorously addressing the casting rumors on Watch What Happens Live!"]

Final Notes
As the trial unfolds, fans await both legal outcomes and potential screen adaptations. Franco’s openness keeps the possibility alive, proving life—and crime—often mirror art.

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