Who is Jodean Bottom? Meet Joaquin Phoenix’s Half-Sister

The Phoenix family is one of Hollywood’s most famous clans, thanks to the incredible talents of actors like River and Joaquin Phoenix. But while most of the siblings have embraced the limelight, one name remains relatively unknown—Jodean Bottom. Unlike her famous half-siblings, Jodean has chosen to stay out of the public eye. So, who is she, and what’s her story? Let’s take a deep dive into her life.

Jodean Bottom’s Early Life and Background

Jodean Bottom was born on February 29, 1964, in Amadora, Portugal. If that date looks a little unusual, it’s because she’s a Leap Year baby! That means she only gets to celebrate her actual birthday every four years—talk about a unique start to life.

Despite her connection to the Phoenix family, Jodean lived much of her life in the shadows, away from the Hollywood buzz. She only came into the spotlight after her late half-brother, River Phoenix, discovered her existence and made efforts to bring her into the family fold.

Jodean Bottom’s Parents and Family Ties

Jodean is the daughter of John Lee Bottom and a woman named Trinity. At the time of her birth, John was fleeing Canada, hoping to avoid being drafted into the Vietnam War. This complicated situation meant that Jodean never had the opportunity to meet her father as a child.

Later, John Lee Bottom married Arlyn Phoenix, who would become Jodean’s stepmother. Arlyn is well known for being a passionate social activist and the woman who raised the famous Phoenix siblings. Despite the unconventional circumstances, Jodean eventually found her way to her extended family.

Meet the Phoenix Siblings

Jodean may have stayed out of the limelight, but her half-siblings have all had remarkable careers in the entertainment industry. Let’s take a closer look at them:

River Phoenix

Born in 1970, River was the oldest Phoenix sibling and an incredibly talented actor and musician. He starred in classic films like Stand by Me and My Own Private Idaho but tragically passed away at the young age of 23 outside the Viper Room club in Los Angeles due to a drug overdose. His loss was deeply felt by his family and fans alike.

Rain Phoenix

Rain is a multi-talented artist, working as both an actress and a singer. Born in 1972, she has appeared in movies like Hitch and Maid to Order while also making waves in the music industry. In 2019, she released a solo album titled River as a tribute to her late brother.

Joaquin Phoenix

The most famous of the Phoenix siblings, Joaquin was born in 1974 and has become a household name. Known for his roles in Gladiator, The Master, and his Oscar-winning performance in Joker, Joaquin has solidified himself as one of Hollywood’s most talented and intense actors. Despite his fame, he has always remained deeply connected to his family.

Liberty Phoenix

Liberty was born in 1976 and had a brief acting career in the 1980s before stepping away from Hollywood. She now manages the River Phoenix Center for Peacebuilding, a charity dedicated to social justice and activism.

Summer Phoenix

The youngest of the Phoenix siblings, Summer, born in 1978, has followed in her family’s footsteps, starring in various films and television productions. Though she may not be as widely known as Joaquin, she has carved out a respected career in the entertainment industry.

Jodean Bottom’s Net Worth and Career

Unlike her famous half-siblings, Jodean Bottom has chosen to keep her professional and personal life private. Because of this, very little is known about her career or net worth. Meanwhile, her half-brother Joaquin has amassed an estimated net worth of $60 million as of 2025, thanks to his highly successful acting career.

Clearing Up the Family Mysteries

Over the years, many fans have wondered about the dynamics within the Phoenix family. One common question is whether River and Joaquin had the same parents. The answer is yes—they both share John Lee Bottom and Arlyn Phoenix as their mother and father.

Another interesting tidbit is why Joaquin Phoenix changed his name. As a child, he wanted a nature-inspired name like his siblings, River and Rain, so he started calling himself “Leaf.” Eventually, as an adult, he returned to his birth name, Joaquin.

Jodean Bottom: The Private Phoenix

Jodean Bottom’s story is a fascinating one—she grew up away from the spotlight but later became known after her famous half-brother River welcomed her into the family. Despite her connection to some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, she has always maintained a low profile, choosing to live her life outside of public scrutiny.

While the world may not know much about her, one thing is certain: she is part of one of the most unique and talented families in Hollywood history.