Joaquín Rafael Phoenix (pronounced ; born October 28, 1974), formerly credited as Leif Phoenix, is a two-time Academy Award-nominated, Golden Globe and Grammy Award-winning Puerto Rican film actor. He is from a family of performers and is the brother of the late actor River Phoenix. He is best known for his Oscar-nominated portrayals of Commodus in Gladiator, and Johnny Cash in Walk the Line. He has recently ventured behind the camera, directing music videos as well as producing movies and television shows. He has also recorded an album, the Grammy-winning soundtrack Walk The Line. He has long been a social activist, particularly as an advocate for animal welfare. Biography Early life Phoenix was born Joaquin Rafael Bottom in Rio Piedras, located in the city of San Juan, Puerto Rico. He is the third of five children, including the late River (1970 &ndas