Joaquin Phoenix opened up during his recent appearance on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert about the infamous 2009 interview he gave on Dave Letterman’s show. Known for his bold and unusual approach during that episode, Phoenix expressed deep regret over the experience, describing it as “one of the worst nights” of his life. This candid reflection came during Phoenix’s visit on Tuesday night, marking his first late-night interview since the incident.
The Actor’s Intentions Behind the Disturbing Interview
During the 2009 Letterman interview, Phoenix appeared in character as portrayed in the mockumentary I’m Still Here, presenting himself with unkempt hair and an eccentric demeanor. This performance, which blurred the lines between reality and acting, led many viewers to believe he was suffering a mental health crisis. Speaking with Colbert, Phoenix revealed that the performance was deliberately provocative. He admitted that he informed the show’s producers of his plan to create a confrontational and uncomfortable experience.
“When I came on this show with Dave, I originally did the pre-interview in character and I realized that it was just a little silly, so I called them back and I said, ‘Listen, this is what I’m doing. I’m coming out here and I’m doing this whole thing. And I just want Dave to like, lacerate me. I just want it to be really dangerous,’”
Phoenix said.
“That was the kind of intention — I just always wanted to get this reaction and see how I would respond to that. So it was beneficial for no one to know, except when needed.”
Admission of Regret and Apology to Letterman
Despite the initial motivation to elicit a strong reaction, Phoenix admitted the interview itself was a regrettable misstep. He described the experience as “so uncomfortable” and apologized emphatically for how it unfolded. Colbert, in a lighter moment, jokingly wondered if Letterman might still be watching the conversation. Phoenix seized the opportunity to offer a sincere apology directly to Letterman.
“It was so uncomfortable. I regret it, I’ll never do it again. I’m so sorry.”
“I don’t know if [Letterman’s] watching.”
—Stephen Colbert
“He might be and I just need to say, I’m sorry,”
—Joaquin Phoenix
Previous Apology and Reflection on the Incident
Following the controversial 2009 interview, Phoenix had already returned to The Late Show in 2010 to apologize to Letterman. At that time, he expressed hope that he had not caused offense and acknowledged that the lines between his character and real-life persona may have been confusing.
“I hope I didn’t offend you in any way,”
Phoenix said then.
“You’ve interviewed many, many people and I assumed that you would know the difference between a character and a real person, but I apologize.”
Reflecting once more in his conversation with Colbert, Phoenix summarized the ordeal as both a peculiar success and a profoundly difficult experience.
“It was strange because in some ways, it was a success, and it was also just one of the worst nights of my life.”
Looking Ahead: Phoenix’s Current Work and Future Prospects
At the time of this reflection, Phoenix is promoting Ari Aster’s new film Eddington. His appearance on Colbert’s show allowed him to confront and clarify his past actions, demonstrating growth beyond the controversy. The apology and open discussion may influence how audiences remember the 2009 incident, possibly reframing it as a calculated but flawed artistic experiment rather than a personal breakdown.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Was Joaquin Phoenix a good Joker?
A. Pete Hammond from Deadline praised Phoenix’s impressive performance, calling it bold and unique. David Rooney at The Hollywood Reporter said Phoenix’s acting is the film’s highlight. Rooney noted how Phoenix brought the character to life with a mix of sadness and fright that was captivating.
Q. Who saved Joaquin Phoenix?
A. Well-known film director Werner Herzog shares the story of when he saved Joaquin Phoenix from smoking a cigarette that could have been lethal.
Q. Is Joaquin Phoenix a good Joker?
A. To sum up, Phoenix delivers an amazing portrayal of the Joker, yet he misses some elements of trickery, surprise, and grandeur.
Q. Does Joaquin Phoenix have a condition?
A. Joaquin Phoenix’s journey with scoliosis highlights his strength and determination, even with physical challenges. His openness about his condition inspires others and brings more attention to scoliosis.
