The Joker star was locked in to play the lead role in Todd Haynes’ untitled gay romance flick but abruptly quit just five days before cameras were to start rolling, per Variety. His decision to exit the film, which reportedly featured explicit sex scenes, left production in “peril,” insiders told the outlet.

Joaquin Phoenix caused quite a controversy earlier this year when he abruptly dropped out of Todd Haynes’ next film. It was days before shooting and his exit basically ruined the movie’s chances of getting made.