Julia Lazar Franco was not just known for being the wife of American actor and artist Tom Franco, but also for her own remarkable contributions to the arts. She was an accomplished musician, culinary artist, and a significant figure in the Californian art scene. Her life story is one of talent, passion, and resilience, woven through the creative pursuits she dedicated herself to over the years. Though her life was tragically cut short, her impact continues to inspire those who knew her and the many artists she supported throughout her life.
Detail | Information |
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Full Name | Julia Lazar Franco |
Date of Birth | November 7, 1957 |
Place of Birth | Vienna, Austria |
Date of Death | August 25, 2014 |
Cause of Death | Kidney failure & Hepatitis C |
Zodiac Sign | Scorpio |
Age at Death | 57 years old |
Sexual Orientation | Straight |
Ethnicity | Austrian |
Nationality | Austrian-American |
Parents | Imre Lazar & Marika Nagy |
Siblings | 2 brothers: James Franco & Dave Franco |
Famous For | Being Tom Franco’s wife |
Marital Status | Married |
Husband | Tom Franco |
Children | 1 daughter, Dawn |
Profession | Musician, Culinary Artist |
Net Worth at Death | $1 Million |
Early Life and Background
Julia Lazar Franco was born on November 7, 1957, in the culturally rich city of Vienna, Austria. Growing up in an artistic household, Julia was immersed in creativity from a young age. Her father, Imre Lazar, was a respected movie producer, and her mother, Marika Nagy, was a talented painter. This environment played a pivotal role in nurturing Julia’s natural artistic inclinations and her desire to express herself creatively.
Julia’s formative years in Vienna provided her with a deep appreciation for the arts. Known for its classical music, opera, and stunning visual arts, Vienna influenced Julia’s artistic vision in profound ways. Her exposure to the city’s rich cultural heritage inspired her journey into the world of music and culinary arts.
Julia pursued higher education at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Institute in Paris, where she honed her skills in the culinary arts. Here, she learned not only the technical aspects of cooking but also how to present food as an art form. Her culinary career would later become one of her defining creative outlets.
Career Achievements
Music Career
Before she became known as Tom Franco’s wife, Julia had already built a name for herself in the music industry. She was the lead vocalist of the rock band Exit, where her voice stood out for its power and emotion. As the frontwoman of the band, Julia captured the hearts of fans with her raw, dynamic stage presence and fearless approach to musical experimentation.
The band Exit was known for blending different rock subgenres, and Julia’s distinctive vocal style was integral to their success. Her time in music was marked by a devotion to expressing complex emotions through sound, earning her a loyal fan base and critical acclaim.
Culinary Arts
After her music career, Julia shifted her creative energy towards the culinary world. She studied at Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Institute, where she developed a passion for combining flavors and presentation to create unforgettable dining experiences. Julia’s approach to food went beyond mere cooking—it was about artistry. She viewed each dish as a canvas, and her meals reflected the same creativity she had put into her music.
Julia’s culinary talents led her to pursue a career where she crafted innovative dishes and catered for a variety of events. Though she was not widely recognized in the mainstream culinary world, those who experienced her cooking understood that Julia had a unique gift for bringing beauty and flavor together in a way that was truly special.
Contribution to the Art Community
Perhaps one of Julia’s most lasting legacies was her role in managing the Firehouse Art Collective, an art space founded by her husband, Tom Franco. The collective became a hub for local artists, providing a platform for emerging talents to showcase their work in a supportive, collaborative environment.
Julia played an essential role in managing the collective, contributing not only administrative support but also offering mentorship to artists who needed guidance. Her work in the art world wasn’t just about logistics; it was about creating an inclusive community where creativity could thrive. Through her efforts, the Firehouse Art Collective became a nurturing space for artistic expression, deeply reflecting Julia’s own belief in the transformative power of art.
Julia Lazar Franco’s Family

Julia came from an artistic background. Her father, Imre Lazar, was a well-known movie producer, while her mother, Marika Nagy, was a painter. The creative environment of her childhood undoubtedly played a large role in shaping Julia’s artistic path.
She was also the sister of famous Hollywood actors James Franco and Dave Franco, both of whom have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. James is known for his roles in films like 127 Hours and Pineapple Express, while Dave has starred in movies such as Now You See Me and Neighbors.
Though her brothers rose to fame in the film industry, Julia carved out her own artistic identity through music, food, and community-based art. Her legacy is one of creative independence, and her life story stands as a testament to her dedication to the arts.
Meeting Tom Franco
Julia’s journey intersected with Tom Franco’s in 2003, when they met at an ashram in the Bay Area. Both were seeking spiritual enrichment at the time, and their shared interest in art and creativity formed the foundation for a lasting connection. Over time, their friendship blossomed into a romantic relationship, grounded in mutual respect and shared artistic pursuits.
Tom, a fellow artist and founder of the Firehouse Art Collective, and Julia, with her vast artistic background, found a deep connection not just in their personal lives but also in their professional endeavors. Julia played a crucial role in helping Tom manage the collective, further solidifying their bond.
In 2014, after Julia’s health began to deteriorate due to complications from kidney failure and Hepatitis C, the couple decided to marry. Their wedding took place on July 28, 2014, in a hospital solarium, as Julia’s health had rapidly declined. Though their marriage was tragically brief, it was a deeply meaningful union, symbolizing their profound love for each other.
Julia Lazar Franco’s Death
Julia’s passing on August 25, 2014, was a tragic loss to the artistic community and her family. She died just a month after her wedding to Tom Franco. Julia’s health had been in decline for some time, and the couple’s decision to marry in the hospital highlighted their devotion to each other despite the challenges they faced.
Julia’s death marked the end of a life that had been filled with artistic achievements and personal triumphs. She was just 57 years old when she passed away from complications related to kidney failure and Hepatitis C.
Julia Lazar Franco’s Net Worth

At the time of her death, Julia Lazar Franco’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 million. This figure was largely attributed to her work in music, culinary arts, and her significant contributions to the Firehouse Art Collective. Though she may not have been as publicly well-known as her husband or brothers, her legacy in the art world and her financial success reflected her dedication and creativity.
Conclusion
Julia Lazar Franco’s life is a testament to the power of creativity and the impact of artistic expression. From her days as a lead vocalist in a rock band to her work as a culinary artist and her contributions to the art community, Julia carved out her own path in the world. Her love for art and her deep connection to the people around her left an indelible mark on those who knew her. Though her life was tragically cut short, Julia’s legacy continues to inspire those in the arts and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who was Julia Lazar Franco?
Julia Lazar Franco was an Austrian-American musician, culinary artist, and a prominent figure in the California art community. She was known for being the wife of American artist and actor Tom Franco and for her contributions to music and the arts.
2. What did Julia Lazar Franco do before she married Tom Franco?
Before marrying Tom Franco, Julia was the lead vocalist for the rock band Exit and pursued a career in the culinary arts, studying at Le Cordon Bleu. She also played an integral role in the Firehouse Art Collective, an art space for emerging artists.
3. How did Julia Lazar Franco meet Tom Franco?
Julia and Tom Franco met in 2003 at an ashram in the Bay Area, where both were seeking spiritual growth. Their shared love for art and creativity eventually led to a romantic relationship.
4. What happened to Julia Lazar Franco after her marriage to Tom Franco?
Julia married Tom Franco on July 28, 2014, but tragically passed away just a month later on August 25, 2014, due to complications from kidney failure and Hepatitis C.
5. What was Julia Lazar Franco’s net worth at the time of her death?
At the time of her death, Julia Lazar Franco’s net worth was estimated at $1 million, stemming from her careers in music, culinary arts, and her role in the Firehouse Art Collective.
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