Joaquin Phoenix has made his latest career move—straight out the door! The 49-year-old actor, famous for playing intense characters and staring into the abyss, has exited Todd Haynes’ untitled gay romance movie just five days before cameras were set to roll. In typical Joaquin fashion, he decided to keep things mysterious while attending the press conference for Joker: Folie à Deux at the 2024 Venice Film Festival.
When asked why he bolted from the movie, Phoenix gave the most Joaquin answer possible: “If I talk about it, I’m just sharing my opinion, but the other creatives aren’t here to say their piece, so… y’know, it doesn’t feel right,” he said, as quoted by People.
Translation: He doesn’t want to spill the tea without the other drama queens present. Very considerate.
“I’m not sure how that would be helpful,” Phoenix added. “So I don’t think I will.” Ah yes, the classic Phoenix Jedi mind trick—say just enough to keep everyone guessing, but not enough to actually tell us anything.
The film was set to be filmed in Guadalajara, Mexico, which now has one less brooding method actor wandering its scenic streets. Rumor has it the cast and crew were all set to welcome Phoenix, but then he pulled a Houdini and vanished. Who needs a grand exit when you can just… not show up?
Maybe next time, Joaquin will star in a rom-com about a guy who actually sticks around for the whole shoot. Until then, we’ll be here, trying to figure out what just happened.
@apnewsentertainment In Venice promoting his "Joker" sequel, Joaquin Phoenix says it wouldn't be "helpful" for him to explain why he recently dropped out of a Todd Haynes film just before it was set to begin shooting. #joaquinphoenix #toddhaynes #venicefilmfestival ♬ original sound – AP Entertainment