James bails

He was supposed to speak at the UCLA College of Letters and Science commencement ceremony on June 12. Remember when it was originally announced, some of the students got all pissy pants and started a petition trying to have him removed because they felt ripped off – what words of wisdom could James Franco possibly pass on?

It’s no longer a sticking point. Because James has bailed citing a scheduling conflict:

"I deeply regret not being able to keep my commitment to giving the commencement speech at UCLA's graduation this year. Unfortunately, the date conflicts with me needing to be on location to begin pre-production on my next film. I wish everyone in the 2009 class the best of luck in all of their future endeavors."

They couldn’t work around him for a couple of days? Or maybe he just changed his mind…

Either way, kinda weak.

As for what’s officially keeping him busy, as mentioned recently, he’s signed on with Natalie Portman in Your Highness but as of last week they were still casting. Maybe they accelerated the production timeline. Whatever the case, he clearly doesn’t want to be there. Celebrities, if they want something badly enough, they’ll make it happen.

Disappointing.

Hate being disappointed by imaginary lovers. Such a buzzkill.

So I’m tapping into my happy place. Behind the scenes of his shoot for Gucci. It’s the song too. Roisin Murphy covering Slave to Love. A must download.

And the 30 second spot…

File photo from Wenn.com