Bodog Beat

Joaquin Phoenix can write. (WENN Images)

Actor Joaquin Phoenix didn't get the response he wanted when he mumbled his plans to retire to an unsuspecting reporter. Phoenix apparently expected more of a reaction to his slurred announcement, rather than the awkward chuckle he received. The reporter, apparently couldn't tell whether or not the actor was serious, which offended Phoenix who then stormed off.

Thus, at Saturday's premiere of Che, Phoenix decided to let everyone know via the words "bye" and "good" scrawled across his knuckles – a sentiment probably more effective if he'd had put the words in the correct order.

Page Six reports: "The two-time Oscar nominee (Walk the Line and Gladiator) showed up to a tribute to Paul Newman last week in San Francisco and 'was out of it,' said one attendee. Other actors were performing scenes and readings, but Phoenix just got up and walked out. 'He wobbled back in a bit later, but it was odd,' said our source. 'He was slurring his words and was unsteady on his feet.'"

Phoenix's rep denies the claims, arguing that Joaquin wants to focus on his music.