Joaquin Phoenix has apologized for his controversial 2009 appearance onThe Late Show with David Letterman. Phoenix, in character for his role in the mockumentaryI’m Not Here, answered Letterman’s questions with mumbles and one-word answers, leaving the host and the audience confused.
In his first appearance onThe Late Showin 15 years, this time with hostStephen Colbert, Phoenix apologized to David Letterman for his unusual appearance, calling it “one of the worst nights of my life.”
It was horrible. It was so uncomfortable. I regret it. I’ll never do it again. I’m so sorry. I don’t know if he’s watching. I just need to say I’m sorry.
Breaking Down Joaquin Phoenix’s 2009 Appearance On The Late Show
Reckoning With A Super Awkward And Creatively Misguided Appearance
During the production of Joaquin Phoenix’s 2009 mockumentaryI’m Not Here, Phoenix dove headfirst into method acting, including with his appearance onThe Late Show with David Letterman. The interview, eight minutes of Letterman trying to extract anything of substance from Phoenix, was excruciating for audiences and the host alike.
Phoenix, in his reflection on the events, said that he notified Letterman’s team that he’d be in character, and that he wanted Letterman to “lacerate” him. He didn’t want anyone to know going into it, so that the “performance” could be as authentic as possible.
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.
Our Take On Joaquin Phoenix’s Apology For His 2009 Appearance On The Late Show with David Letterman
What In The World Was He Thinking With This?
In art and performance, it can be daunting for performers to engage in method acting, even under the right circumstances. Joaquin Phoenix, praised for his acting ability and his resume, took this appearance onThe Late Show with David Lettermana bit too far, and nearly destroyed his career in the process.
Phoenix was visibly embarrassed about hisLettermanfiasco, and provided a genuine apology to one of the Kings of Late Night. It’s impossible to imagine him ever partaking in something like that again, but the Internet lives forever, and this memorable(?)Late Showinterview will live on, undoubtedly to Phoenix’s chagrin.
