Joaquin Phoenix Names His First Son After His Brother, River Phoenix

We’re proud to report that Joaquin Phoenix has had a baby son with actress Rooney Mara — and he named him River, after his late brother River Phoenix.

The news was revealed by director Victor Kossakovsky, who worked with Joaquin on his new documentary, Gunda.

Joaquin and Rooney first met on the set of the Spike Jonze film Her, but did not begin dating until they were reunited on the set of the film Mary Magdalene. They confirmed their engagement last year.

Joaquin lost his 23-year-old brother, River, to a drug overdose at Johnny Depp’s LA nightclub, The Viper Room, in 1993. He was the one who made a harrowing 911 call as he watched the whole thing ensue.

We love you, Joaquin. What an amazing way to remember River.