DragonKing Dark: The death of River Phoenix

This is the tragic story of a young life snuffed out too soon, part of my 100 Darkest Moments in Pop Culture History series.

Actor River Phoenix was only 23 years old when he died of a drug overdose on Halloween morning 1993 outside of the nightclub belonging to Johnny Depp where he had been playing in a band alongside members of the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

His story is a cautionary tale for sure. He was a rapidly ascending young Hollywood star, already with several prestigious awards and iconic movies to his name. His siblings went on to success on their own, including younger brother Joaquin Phoenix.

On this week’s DragonKing Dark, let’s look at the life and times of the late River Phoenix.

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