JOKER’S WILD RIDE ENDS IN TRAGEDY: JOAQUIN PHOENIX QUITS ACTING INDEFINITELY, CITES MENTAL HEALTH CONCERNS AND ‘EMOTIONAL EXHAUSTION’ FROM PORTRAYING ICONIC CHARACTER”*
*”JOKER’S WILD RIDE ENDS IN TRAGEDY: JOAQUIN PHOENIX QUITS ACTING INDEFINITELY, CITES MENTAL HEALTH CONCERNS AND ‘EMOTIONAL EXHAUSTION’ FROM PORTRAYING ICONIC CHARACTER”*
In a shocking move that has left fans and the film industry reeling, Joaquin Phoenix has announced that he is quitting acting indefinitely, citing mental health concerns and emotional exhaustion from portraying the iconic character of Joker.
Phoenix, who won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his chilling portrayal of Arthur Fleck/Joker in the 2019 film, revealed in an exclusive interview that the intense preparation and immersion required to play the character took a severe toll on his mental health.
“I never thought I’d say this, but playing Joker broke me,” Phoenix confessed. “The darkness, the chaos, the anarchy – it all consumed me. I couldn’t shake off the feeling of being trapped in Arthur’s skin, and it started to affect my relationships, my sleep, my entire well-being.”
Phoenix’s decision to step away from acting has sent shockwaves through the film industry, with fans and colleagues alike expressing their support and concern for the talented actor.
“Joaquin is an extraordinary talent, and his dedication to his craft is unparalleled,” said Todd Phillips, director of Joker. “I’m deeply saddened by his decision, but I also understand and respect his need to prioritize his mental health.”
As the news continues to spread, fans are taking to social media to express their shock, sadness, and support for Phoenix, using hashtags #JoaquinPhoenix and #MentalHealthMatters.
The future of the Joker franchise remains uncertain, but one thing is clear – Joaquin Phoenix’s iconic portrayal of the Clown Prince of Crime will forever be etched in the annals of cinematic history.