Behind every great artist, there is often an inspiring partner, and for Tom Franco, that person was Julia Lazar Franco. While she was best known as the wife of Tom Franco, the talented artist and brother of James and Dave Franco, Julia was much more than just a celebrity spouse. She was an artist, musician, and creative visionary in her own right. Her life was filled with passion, love, and an unwavering dedication to art and community. However, her story took a tragic turn when she passed away shortly after her wedding to Tom Franco.
This article explores Julia Lazar Franco’s life, career, relationships, and lasting legacy, shedding light on the remarkable woman who left an unforgettable mark on those who knew her.
Quick Bio
Full Name | Julia Lazar Franco |
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Date of Birth | November 7, 1957 |
Place of Birth | Vienna, Austria |
Nationality | Austrian-American |
Famous For | Artist, Musician, Tom Franco’s Wife |
Father | Imre Lazar (Filmmaker) |
Mother | Marika Nagy (Painter and Illustrator) |
Spouse | Tom Franco (m. 2014) |
First Husband | Richard Schönherz (Composer) |
Children | Dawn Schönherz (Daughter) |
Career | Music, Art, Firehouse Art Collective |
Date of Passing | August 25, 2014 |
Cause of Death | Liver failure due to hepatitis C and kidney complications |
Early Life and Background

Julia Lazar Franco was born on November 7, 1957, in Vienna, Austria, into a highly artistic family. Her father, Imre Lazar, was a filmmaker, and her mother, Marika Nagy, was a painter and illustrator. Growing up in a creative environment, Julia developed an early passion for art and music, which would later define her career and personal life.
During her youth, she was deeply influenced by the European art scene, particularly in the areas of music, painting, and performance arts. Her early experiences laid the foundation for her future artistic collaborations and community-driven projects.
Age and Physical Attributes
At the time of her passing in 2014, Julia Lazar Franco was 56 years old.
Julia had a unique artistic appearance, often described as radiant, free-spirited, and deeply expressive. She carried herself with grace and confidence, reflecting her passion for creativity and individuality.
Her distinctive bohemian style and warm, welcoming aura made her an unforgettable presence in the art and music communities she was a part of.
Professional Career
Throughout her life, Julia Lazar Franco was heavily involved in music, art, and creative collaborations.
- She was a musician and singer, contributing to several artistic projects.
- She worked closely with Tom Franco and the Firehouse Art Collective, helping create a thriving artistic community.
- Her artistic contributions extended to photography, performance art, and community-based creative initiatives.
Her passion for collaborative art projects made her an essential part of the Firehouse Art Collective, a community-led organization that provided creative spaces for artists, musicians, and visionaries.
Julia Lazar Franco’s Meeting with Tom Franco

Julia Lazar Franco met Tom Franco, an artist and the brother of James and Dave Franco, through their shared love for art and creativity.
Their relationship was built on a deep intellectual and artistic connection, which led to them working together on multiple creative projects. Over time, their partnership evolved into a romantic relationship, with both sharing a strong bond over their mutual love for art and community-building.
The Hospital Wedding of Julia Lazar Franco and Tom Franco

One of the most emotional moments in Julia Lazar Franco’s life was her wedding to Tom Franco. Sadly, Julia was battling severe health issues at the time, and her condition worsened in 2014.
Despite the difficult circumstances, Tom Franco and Julia chose to get married in the hospital, ensuring they could celebrate their love despite her declining health. Their hospital wedding was a testament to their deep love and devotion, showing that their connection went beyond time and physical limitations.
The Age Difference Between Julia Lazar Franco and Tom Franco
One notable aspect of Julia and Tom Franco’s relationship was their significant age difference.
- Julia was 23 years older than Tom Franco, but their love transcended age and societal norms.
- They shared a deep emotional and artistic bond, which strengthened their relationship.
- Their love story challenged conventional expectations, proving that true connection is not defined by age.
Their unconventional relationship inspired many, demonstrating the power of love, mutual respect, and shared artistic passion.
Who Is Tom Franco

Tom Franco is a multifaceted artist, filmmaker, and the founder of the Firehouse Art Collective.
- He is the middle brother of James and Dave Franco, both well-known actors.
- Tom is primarily known for his work in mixed-media art, sculpture, and filmmaking.
- His leadership in the Firehouse Art Collective helped create a thriving artistic community in California.
His relationship with Julia Lazar Franco was one of the most defining aspects of his personal and artistic journey, shaping much of his creative work and philosophy.
Julia Lazar Franco’s First Marriage to Richard Schönherz
Before her relationship with Tom Franco, Julia Lazar Franco was married to Richard Schönherz, an Austrian composer and musician.
- Their marriage was centered around music and creative collaborations.
- Together, they had a daughter, Dawn Schönherz, who remains part of Julia’s legacy.
Though their marriage ended, Julia remained deeply connected to her past and the creative influences that shaped her.
Julia Lazar Franco’s Passing Shortly After Her Wedding
In 2014, Julia Lazar Franco tragically passed away due to liver failure caused by hepatitis C and complications related to kidney failure.
Her death was a devastating loss for her family, friends, and the artistic community she helped build. Despite her physical absence, her spirit continues to influence and inspire many.
Julia’s Impact and Legacy
Though she passed away too soon, Julia Lazar Franco’s impact remains profound.
- Her contributions to the Firehouse Art Collective continue to inspire young artists and creatives.
- Her love story with Tom Franco remains a beautiful example of deep artistic and emotional connection.
- Her music, art, and community-driven projects live on in the hearts of those she touched.
Julia Lazar Franco’s Financial Legacy
While Julia’s financial details are not widely documented, her artistic contributions and work with the Firehouse Art Collective have left a lasting mark on the creative world.
Her legacy is not measured in financial wealth but in the richness of her creative contributions and the inspiration she provided to others.
Conclusion
Julia Lazar Franco was more than just Tom Franco’s wife—she was a passionate artist, musician, and community builder. Her love for art, her dedication to creativity, and her inspiring love story with Tom Franco continue to live on.
Though her life was cut short, her impact remains eternal, proving that art, love, and passion never truly fade away.
FAQs
Who was Julia Lazar Franco?
Julia Lazar Franco was an artist, musician, and community leader, best known as the wife of Tom Franco, the middle brother of James and Dave Franco.
What was Julia Lazar Franco’s profession?
She was a musician, artist, and a key figure in the Firehouse Art Collective, where she collaborated with Tom Franco on various creative projects.
When and where was Julia Lazar Franco born?
Julia was born on November 7, 1957, in Vienna, Austria, into a family of artists and filmmakers.
How did Julia Lazar Franco and Tom Franco meet?
They met through their shared passion for art and creativity, working together in the Firehouse Art Collective before their relationship turned romantic.
What was the age difference between Julia Lazar Franco and Tom Franco?
Julia was 23 years older than Tom Franco, but their deep emotional and artistic bond transcended their age gap.
When did Julia Lazar Franco and Tom Franco get married?
They got married in 2014, in a hospital ceremony while Julia was battling severe health issues.
How did Julia Lazar Franco pass away?
Julia Lazar Franco passed away on August 25, 2014, due to liver failure caused by hepatitis C and kidney complications.
Did Julia Lazar Franco have children?
Yes, she had a daughter, Dawn Schönherz, from her first marriage to Austrian composer Richard Schönherz.
What is Julia Lazar Franco’s legacy?
Her artistic contributions, music, and work with the Firehouse Art Collective continue to inspire artists and creatives worldwide.
How is Julia Lazar Franco remembered today?
She is remembered as a passionate artist, a loving wife, and an inspirational figure, whose love for creativity and community left a lasting impact.
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