Joaquin Phoenix's Exit Leads to Todd Haynes' Film Cancellation

Oscar winner Joaquin Phoenix's unexpected exit from Todd Haynes' upcoming film has caused the project's cancellation. The movie, a gay drama set in the 1930s, was just days from filming. Phoenix, who co-wrote the script, reportedly got cold feet. The film will no longer proceed and his role won't be recast.

Oscar winner Joaquin Phoenix's unexpected departure from filmmaker Todd Haynes' upcoming film has resulted in the project's cancellation.

According to American news outlet Variety, Phoenix exited the gay drama film, set in the 1930s and featuring explicit content, just five days before filming was scheduled to commence in Guadalajara, Mexico.

A source close to the production shared that the ''Joker'' actor experienced ''cold feet'' over the project, which he had co-developed with Haynes and Jon Raymond.

Phoenix was set to star alongside ''Top Gun: Maverick'' actor Danny Ramirez in the love story that was poised for an NC-17 rating due to graphic sex scenes. The role will not be recast.

Director Todd Haynes, during the press tour for his 2023 Netflix film ''May December'', revealed to IndieWire that Phoenix had been the driving force behind the project, describing the experience as organic and daring.

Phoenix, 49, is next slated to appear in ''Joker: Folie a Deux'', the sequel to his 2019 movie ''Joker'', set for an October release and also starring Lady Gaga, directed by Todd Phillips.