Joaquin Phoenix Breaks Silence After Dropping Out Of Gay Romance Movie With Graphic Scenes 5 Days Before Filming
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Joaquin Phoenix speaks out about abrupt exit from gay romance film.
Joaquin Phoenix has finally addressed his shocking decision to exit a highly-anticipated gay romance film just five days before filming was set to start.
The film, directed by Todd Haynes, was slated to be an NC-17-rated love story, featuring explicit sexual content.
Phoenix was set to star alongside Top Gun: Maverick actor Danny Ramirez, with the duo playing lovers in a 1930s setting.
IndieWire first reported on Phoenix’s sudden departure, which sent shockwaves through Hollywood.
The actor, known for pushing boundaries, reportedly got “cold feet” at the last minute, according to a source close to the production.
The abrupt move left many wondering—what could possibly have spooked the fearless Oscar winner?
In fact, Haynes told Variety that the film’s explicit nature was something Phoenix encouraged.
“Joaquin was pushing it further into more dangerous territory, sexually,” Haynes revealed, leaving many baffled by his exit.
The film was to explore a daring love story between two men, a narrative Phoenix initially seemed eager to dive into.
This wasn’t just any indie project—Phoenix’s involvement was key to its funding and star power.
Without him, the entire production came crashing down.
Now, sources say losses could hit seven figures as stakeholders scramble for compensation.
Danny Ramirez, whose role depended on Phoenix’s participation, is also left hanging.
The news shocked not just fans, but industry insiders, given Phoenix’s reputation for bold, avant-garde roles.
This wasn’t the first time the actor had thrown himself into controversial projects.
His 2019 performance in Joker earned him an Academy Award, a role that was both psychologically intense and controversial.
In fact, Phoenix has built his career on such unorthodox choices, from his unsettling portrayal of Johnny Cash in Walk the Line to the philosophical sci-fi Her.
