The Deuce has no Plan B: Writing staff is working on Season 2 scripts with James Franco's characters integral to the plot

Variety

Despite lingering sexual misconduct allegations against Franco, Variety's Cynthia Littleton reports that the HBO drama is set to begin filming Season 2 in a few weeks with the actor still on board as the star and executive producer. "At present," Littleton reports, "The Deuce writing staff is at work on scripts for the second season in which Franco’s characters of Frankie and Vincent Martino are integral to the plot. A source close to the situation said there was no alternate plan for storylines should Franco be forced out." In January it was reported that HBO was taking a "wait-and-see" approach with regard to Franco's future with the show.