Joaquin Phoenix's Harrowing Childhood in the 'Children of God' Cult

Before achieving global stardom for his roles in films like "Joker" and "Napoleon," Joaquin Phoenix endured a childhood deeply intertwined with one of the most dangerous cults of the 1970s: the "Children of God." His older brother, River Phoenix, the family's first major star who tragically died at 23 from a drug overdose, also grew up within the sect.

Joaquin and River's parents, John Lee Bottom and Arlyn Dunetz, were part of the late 1960s flower power movement. Disillusioned with traditional systems, they joined the communal organization led by American ex-pastor David Berg. The group promoted a nomadic lifestyle and absolute devotion to its founder's prophecies. During this period, the Phoenix family traveled extensively through Latin America, with Joaquin being born in Puerto Rico in 1974, while his siblings were born in various locations including Texas, Venezuela, and Florida.

The Phoenix siblings were fully immersed in the cult's doctrine. Initially presenting itself as a revolutionary Christian and pacifist movement, the organization's practices took a dark turn by the mid-1970s. Leader David Berg introduced extreme methods, including psychological manipulation, societal isolation, and the corruption of minors. The cult openly promoted the use of sex as a recruitment and fundraising tool, a practice known as "flirty fishing."

Despite their young age, the experience left a profound mark on the siblings. As international denunciations of systematic abuse and institutional mistreatment grew, Joaquin's parents decided to completely distance themselves from the organization. This rupture occurred in the late 1970s, leading the family to escape Venezuela on a cargo ship and return to the United States. Upon their return, the family reinvented themselves, changing their surname from Bottoms to Phoenix, symbolizing a rebirth from adversity. Settling in Los Angeles, the children began working as street performers and in television commercials to support themselves. Joaquin briefly adopted the name Leaf, while River quickly gained attention in the film industry.