Joaquin Phoenix Revisiting the David Letterman Interview: “One of My Worst Nights”

Remember Joaquin Phoenix’s baffling 2009 appearance on the Late Show with David Letterman? The sunglasses, the mumbling, the chewing gum, the seemingly detached demeanor… it left viewers and Letterman himself bewildered. Now, years later, Phoenix is reflecting on that infamous interview, candidly sharing his feelings about the experience.

A Look Back at the “I’m Still Here” Era

At the time, Phoenix was supposedly promoting his mockumentary, I’m Still Here, directed by Casey Affleck. The film purported to document Phoenix’s transition from acclaimed actor to aspiring rapper, a transformation that included a heavily bearded, often disheveled appearance and what many perceived as erratic behavior. The Letterman interview became a focal point of this persona, fueling speculation about Phoenix’s mental state.

The Aftermath and Phoenix’s Reflections

The interview was widely discussed and dissected, with many questioning Phoenix’s sincerity and well-being. Later revealed as a performance art piece and elaborate hoax, the experience still resonates with Phoenix. He now describes the Letterman appearance as one of his “worst nights,” acknowledging the awkwardness and discomfort he felt. Looking back, Phoenix’s perspective offers a fascinating glimpse into the pressures of performance, the blurring lines between persona and reality, and the enduring impact of a single, unforgettable television moment.