John Lee Bottom, known by his stage name John Phoenix, is best remembered as the father of two influential Hollywood actors—River Phoenix and Joaquin Phoenix. Although he briefly stepped into the public eye, John’s true legacy is forever intertwined with the success of his talented children. River, a rising star in the early 1990s, tragically passed away at the young age of 23, leaving behind a lasting impact through his performances in films like Stand By Me and My Own Private Idaho. Joaquin, on the other hand, has achieved worldwide fame, winning an Oscar for his role in Joker and earning critical acclaim for his performances in films such as The Master and Walk the Line. John’s influence on his sons’ lives and careers is undeniable, even though his own time in the limelight was brief.
Before becoming a father to these accomplished actors, John Phoenix and his wife, Arlyn, spent several years as members of the Christian missionary group, The Children of God. Founded in the late 1960s, the group was known for its unconventional methods of spreading Christianity, which later drew controversy. Despite eventually leaving the group, John’s time with The Children of God shaped much of his worldview and played a role in his approach to parenting. The teachings and experiences he encountered within the organization likely influenced his outlook on life, making him an important figure in shaping the path of his children, even as his personal story remains largely out of the public eye.
Who Is Jodean Bottom?
Jodean Bottom, the half-sister of famous actors Joaquin and River Phoenix, was born on February 29, 1964, in Amadora, Portugal. As of 2022, she is 58 years old. Jodean’s mother, Trinity, raised her in Portugal, and Jodean’s relationship with her father, John Lee Bottom, was never established. Before Jodean’s birth, John fled Canada to avoid being drafted into the Vietnam War, which meant he was not present in her life. This absence prevented Jodean from interacting with her father, leaving her to grow up without much public attention for many years.
Jodean lived a relatively quiet life until she was later discovered by her half-brother, Joaquin Phoenix, who learned of her existence and reached out to reconnect with her. Despite her low-key upbringing, Jodean’s life became known to the public after this reunion. Her stepmother, Arlyn Phoenix, a well-known American social media activist and mother to Joaquin and River, has played an influential role in the Phoenix family dynamic. Jodean’s discovery added another layer to the already complex family story of the Phoenix siblings, which has been marked by both triumph and tragedy.
John Lee Bottom Biography
John Lee Bottom was a man with a unique and interesting life story. He was a husband, a father, and a member of a religious cult. He met his wife, Arlyn Phoenix, in California, and the couple decided to marry on September 13, 1969. They soon went on to become missionaries and traveled to various parts of the world to spread their message. However, they later discovered that the group they were involved with promoted sex between adults and minors, as well as group sex. Their son, River, was also sexually abused at a young age. They eventually left the cult and moved back to the United States with their children, settling in Winterpark, Florida, where they changed their surname to Phoenix.
John Lee Bottom Quick Facts
| Category | Information |
| Full Name | John Lee Bottom |
| First Name | John |
| Middle Name | Lee |
| Last Name | Bottom |
| Profession | Celebrity Father |
| Nationality | American |
| Birth Country | United States |
| Father Name | Robert Merrill Bottom |
| Mother Name | Beulah Ingram |
| Gender Identity | Male |
| Sexual Orientation | Straight |
| Date of Birth | 1947 |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in |
| Weight | 50 Kg |
| Net worth | $50 million |
Early Life Of The Phoenix Family
The Phoenix family is widely recognized for its impact on the entertainment industry, with each member contributing to various artistic fields in their own unique way. The family consists of five siblings: Rain, Joaquin, Liberty, Summer, and the late River Phoenix, who gained fame for his remarkable acting talent. While the Phoenix name has become synonymous with stardom, the family’s journey to this point is rooted in their unconventional upbringing. They were initially part of the religious group Children of God, which took them on a nomadic path, traveling the world as their parents followed the group’s teachings.
However, when John Lee Bottom, the patriarch of the family, was just three years old, his parents made the pivotal decision to leave the Children of God. In a bid to break free from their past and start anew, they also chose to change their surname to “Phoenix.” This change marked a symbolic rebirth for the family, as they sought to forge their own identity and leave behind the controversial and restrictive religious group. From that moment, the Phoenix family began to establish themselves as individuals and eventually became prominent figures in the world of entertainment.
John Lee Bottom’s Early Career
John Lee Bottom, the father of actor Joaquin Phoenix, led a life that was significantly different from the one his children would later lead in the public eye. While he did have a brief foray into the entertainment world, beginning his acting career at the age of eight, he ultimately chose not to pursue it further. His time in the spotlight was short-lived, and instead of continuing a career in acting, he opted for a more private existence. He distanced himself from the entertainment industry, preferring a quiet, low-profile life away from the constant attention and scrutiny that came with fame.
As the father of one of Hollywood’s most acclaimed actors, John’s life stands in stark contrast to the careers of his children, who would go on to become household names. Despite his early involvement in the industry, he prioritized a life of anonymity and family over public recognition. This decision to live away from the glare of the spotlight shaped his legacy, as he remained largely out of the public consciousness while his children, including Joaquin, carved out their own places in the world of film and entertainment.
His girlfriend And The Birth Of His First Child
Before marrying Arlyn Phoenix, John Lee Bottom had a brief affair with a woman, whose identity has never been publicly disclosed. From that relationship, a daughter named Jodean Bottom was born. For many years, John’s family remained unaware of Jodean’s existence, as the affair and its consequences were kept a secret. It wasn’t until much later that the truth came to light, when a close friend of the family revealed the existence of Jodean. This revelation was a shock to John’s family, who had never known about the daughter from his past.
When the truth came out, it was his son, River Phoenix, who took it upon himself to locate Jodean and establish a relationship with her. River, known for his deep empathy and strong sense of responsibility, embraced his role in helping Jodean, ensuring that she and her daughter were cared for. His actions reflected a sense of familial duty and compassion, as he sought to support his newfound family member. River’s willingness to care for Jodean and her child marked a poignant chapter in his life, demonstrating the love and commitment he held for his family, even when the circumstances were complicated.
The Phoenix Children
John Lee Bottom and Arlyn Phoenix were parents to five children, each of whom would go on to leave their mark on the world in their own unique ways. Their first child, Rain Phoenix, was born in 1972, followed closely by their second eldest son, River Phoenix, who was born in 1970. River would later become a beloved actor, known for his deeply moving performances and tragic death at a young age. The Phoenix family continued to grow with the arrival of their third child, Jude Phoenix, born in 1975, followed by Liberty Phoenix in 1976. Each of the children, though they took different paths, shared a bond shaped by their unconventional upbringing.
Summer Phoenix, the youngest of the five, was born in 1978. Over the years, the Phoenix siblings have maintained a close family connection, supporting one another through their careers and personal lives. While some of them pursued careers in the entertainment industry, like River and Joaquin Phoenix, others, such as Rain, have engaged in music and activism. Together, they represent a family that, despite their individual pursuits, remains rooted in their shared history and deep sense of unity.
River Phoenix
River Phoenix was the most well-known and celebrated member of the Phoenix family, rising to prominence as one of the most talented actors of his generation. His career began at a young age, with appearances in television shows and commercials before landing his breakout role in the 1986 film Stand by Me. The film showcased his ability to capture complex emotions and earned him widespread recognition. River’s career quickly gained momentum, and he went on to star in a series of critically acclaimed films, including Running on Empty, My Own Private Idaho, and The Thing Called Love. His performances were marked by depth and authenticity, earning him admiration from critics and fans alike. Beyond his acting, River was also a passionate musician and activist, using his platform to raise awareness about important social causes.
River was deeply committed to social justice and environmental activism, actively advocating for animal rights, environmental protection, and other pressing issues. His dedication to these causes was evident in both his public statements and the lifestyle he led. Tragically, his promising career and life were cut short on October 31, 1993, when he passed away at the age of 23. River had performed that evening at the Viper Room nightclub in Los Angeles and died from a drug overdose shortly afterward. His untimely death left a profound impact on the entertainment industry, his family, and his devoted fans worldwide. River Phoenix’s legacy lives on through his remarkable body of work and his unwavering commitment to making a difference.
Divorce And Life After Divorce
John Lee Bottom’s marriage to his wife, Arlyn Phoenix, was once considered a strong and enduring partnership. Together, they navigated life’s ups and downs, raising five children and supporting each other through the challenges that came with their unconventional lifestyle. However, after 27 years of marriage, the couple decided to part ways in 1997. The reasons behind their decision to divorce remain private, and despite speculation, neither John nor Arlyn have publicly detailed the factors that led to the end of their long relationship.
Following the divorce, John Lee Bottom chose to step out of the public eye, retreating from the spotlight that had once surrounded his family. He lived a much quieter life, far removed from the fame and media attention that his children, particularly his son Joaquin Phoenix, experienced. John’s decision to live privately reflected his desire to move forward and find peace away from the complexities of his public past. His life post-divorce remained largely out of the public’s view, as he focused on his personal well-being and maintaining a low-profile existence.
John Lee Bottom’s Cause Of Death
In his later years, John Lee Bottom faced a private and challenging battle with cancer. After his divorce from Arlyn Phoenix, he largely withdrew from the public eye, choosing to live quietly and focus on his health. The details of this period in his life remain largely unknown, as John maintained a low profile, away from the media attention that had once surrounded his family. His decision to live discreetly was in keeping with his wish to lead a more peaceful life in the face of his illness.
John Lee Bottom passed away in 2015 at the age of 68, after a long and private struggle with cancer. His death marked the end of a quiet chapter for a man who had once been part of a family thrust into the spotlight. Though his passing was a sad moment for his loved ones, it was a final retreat from the world that had once scrutinized his every move. His death, from cancer, left his family to carry on his legacy, with memories of a man who had sought privacy and peace in his final years.
Controversies
John Lee Bottom, an accomplished American producer and songwriter, had a past that included an affiliation with the controversial religious group known as The Children of God, later rebranded as The Family International. The group, which gained notoriety for its unconventional beliefs and practices, included the controversial “Flirty Fishing” rule. This practice encouraged female members to engage in sexual relationships with outsiders in an effort to attract new recruits. John and his wife Arlyn joined the group in 1973, seeking meaning and purpose during a turbulent period in their lives. However, by 1977, they grew disillusioned with the group’s practices and made the decision to leave, distancing themselves from the organization’s controversial activities.
Despite their departure, John’s early involvement with the cult has often overshadowed discussions about his career. His affiliation with The Children of God has led to speculation about his personal beliefs and behavior. However, it is important to recognize John for his professional accomplishments, particularly in the music industry. As a producer and songwriter, he made significant contributions that shaped the careers of numerous artists. While his past affiliation with a controversial group is part of his story, it should not define his legacy. Instead, his work in the music world deserves recognition for its lasting impact and influence.
John Lee Bottom Net Worth
John Lee Bottom led a more private life compared to his children, working as a carpenter and staying largely out of the public eye. As a result, details about his financial status, including his net worth, remain undisclosed. His focus was on providing for his family and maintaining a low profile, which kept him away from the media spotlight. While there is little information available about his personal wealth, his contributions to his family’s life were significant, even if not tied to public recognition or financial gain.
In contrast, John’s son, Joaquin Phoenix, has achieved remarkable success in the entertainment industry, with a net worth of $50 million as of October 2022. Joaquin’s wealth stems largely from his illustrious acting career, which includes numerous standout roles in critically acclaimed films. His performance in Joker (2019), where he won an Academy Award for Best Actor, significantly boosted his career and financial standing. Some of Joaquin’s most successful films, like Gladiator, Walk the Line, and Her, have also enjoyed both critical and commercial success, with substantial box office earnings and widespread recognition. These achievements have cemented Joaquin Phoenix as one of Hollywood’s most respected actors, contributing to his substantial wealth.
FAQs
Q: Who was John Lee Bottom?
A: John Lee Bottom, also known as John Phoenix, was the father of actors River and Joaquin Phoenix and a former member of the controversial religious group “The Children of God.”
Q: How many children did John Lee Bottom have?
A: John Lee Bottom had five children with his wife, Arlyn Phoenix: Rain, River, Liberty, Summer, and Joaquin Phoenix. He also had a daughter, Jodean Bottom, from a previous relationship.
Q: What is John Lee Bottom known for?
A: John Lee Bottom is best known for being the father of the famous Phoenix siblings, including the late River Phoenix and Oscar-winning actor Joaquin Phoenix. He was also a former member of “The Children of God.”
Q: What was John Lee Bottom’s cause of death?
A: John Lee Bottom passed away in 2015 at the age of 68 after battling cancer.
Q: What was John Lee Bottom’s net worth?
A: John Lee Bottom’s net worth is not publicly known, but his son Joaquin Phoenix had an estimated net worth of $50 million as of 2022.
Conclusion
John Lee Bottom’s life was shaped by his involvement in both the entertainment world and a controversial religious group. While he kept a low profile, his legacy is strongly tied to his children, especially the late River Phoenix and Oscar-winning actor Joaquin Phoenix. Despite facing personal challenges, including a difficult divorce and a battle with cancer, John’s influence as a father remains an integral part of the Phoenix family’s story, with his children’s ongoing success in the entertainment industry serving as a testament to his lasting impact.
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