Producer Labels Joaquin Phoenix’s Gay Drama Film Exit a ‘Nightmare’

Joaquin Phoenix’s sudden departure from an untitled gay romance drama has been termed a “nightmare” by one of the film’s producers.

In a since-deleted Facebook post, Christine Vachon from Killer Films addressed Phoenix’s exit from the NC-17-rated project, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. The announcement of Phoenix’s exit came just five days before the filming was set to kick off in Guadalajara, Mexico. Unfortunately, following Phoenix’s decision, the project has been canceled.

Vachon confirmed the reports over the weekend when she shared an article about Phoenix dropping out and commented on Facebook, “A version of this did happen. It has been a nightmare.”

So far, neither Phoenix nor the film’s team, including director Todd Haynes, have disclosed the reasons behind the “Joker” star’s departure. However, a source close to the situation told Variety that the actor got “cold feet.”

According to the outlet, the film, which was initially brought to Haynes by Phoenix himself, will not proceed without his involvement, and this failed production could end up costing investors seven figures.

Phoenix was scheduled to star in the film alongside “Top Gun: Maverick” actor Danny Ramirez. In her Facebook post, Vachon also addressed the backlash the movie faced for casting a straight actor in a queer romance set in the 1930s.

“If you are tempted to finger wag or admonish us that ‘that’s what you get for casting a straight actor’ — DON’T,” she wrote.

“This was HIS project that he brought to US — and Killer’s record on working with LGBTQ actors/crew/directors speaks for itself. (and for those of you who HAVE — know that you are making a terrible situation even worse),” she continued.

Director Haynes, known for exploring complex themes of gender and sexuality in his films, has stated that Phoenix was deeply involved in the movie’s development. “We basically wrote with him as a story writer,” Haynes told IndieWire in an interview at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival. “Joaquin was pushing me further and going, ‘No, let’s go further — this will be an NC-17 film.’”

Next, Phoenix will appear in director Todd Phillips’ “Joker: Folie à Deux,” alongside Lady Gaga. The film is slated for an October release.

Source: The Hollywood Reporter, Variety, IndieWire