Joaquin Phoenix at LAVO nightclub, Las Vegas, Nevada - 16.01.09

Pals close to the star told EW.com earlier this week (beg26Jan09) that Phoenix's recent shambolic performance in a Las Vegas nightclub, which was caught on film by brother-in-law Casey Affleck, was all part of an elaborate "art project" hoax.

But his representative, Susan Patricola, insists the actor's rap plans are genuine - and he really has retired from movies to focus on a music career.

She tells MTV News, "He intends on exploring his musical interests, despite speculative, negative or positive reactions."

Source: WENN