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Joaquin's Rap Dream Is Real: Rep

By Evann Gastaldo, Newser Staff

Posted Jan 29, 2009 9:54 AM CST

(Newser) – Joaquin Phoenix really is a struggling rap artist, a rep tells MTV. “The transition from one career to another is never seamless,” the actor’s publicist says. “He intends on exploring his musical interests despite speculative, negative, or positive reactions.” The statement is in direct contrast to rumors that Phoenix and brother-in-law Casey Affleck are staging the meltdown as an elaborate media hoax.

[Images (4)]

[Videos (2)]

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Joaquin Phoenix, left, and Casey Affleck, right, arrive for a staged reading of "The World of Nick Adams" at the Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco, Oct. 27, 2008. (AP Photo)

Actor Joaquin Phoenix arrives at the premiere of "Che" on Nov. 1, 2008. (AP Photo)

Remember what he used to look like? Joaquin Phoenix attends the premiere of "Reservation Road" during the Toronto International Film Festival, Sept. 13, 2007. (AP Photo)

Joaquin Phoenix of 'Two Lovers' arrives at the 2008 AFI Fest held at The Grauman's Chinese Theatre on November 1, 2008 in Hollywood, California. (Getty Images)

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Joaquin Phoenix embarks upon his rap dream in Las Vegas ... and falls off the stage. (chinnybizzle)

Joaquin Phoenix says he's retiring from acting as he walks the red carpet in Hollywood for a screening of his new film "Two Lovers" on Nov. 3. (AP)

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It should come as no surprise to anyone that Joaquin came from a musical family, in addition to winning a Golden Globe for his portrayal of Johnny Cash. - Susan Patricola, rep for Joaquin Phoenix

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