River Phoenix

River Jude Phoenix (né Bottom), born August 23, 1970, was an American movie icon known for his roles as a teen actor before venturing into more mature characters in critically acclaimed films. Phoenix's talent was recognized by numerous accolades, including the Independent Spirit Award and the Volpi Cup, and he was posthumously nominated for an Academy Award and Golden Globe Award. However, his success on the screen came to a tragic end when he died at the age of 23 from acute combined drug intoxication on October 31, 1993.

Phoenix grew up in an itinerant family and started his acting career at the tender age of 10 in television commercials. His notable early film roles were in 'Explorers' (1985), 'Stand by Me' (1986), and 'The Mosquito Coast' (1986). He gained prominence for his performance as Michael Waters, a gay hustler searching for his estranged mother in the Gus Van Sant drama 'My Own Private Idaho' (1991). Off the screen, Phoenix was also a passionate musician, songwriter, and guitarist. He is remembered for his strong dedication to animal rights and environmental activism.