Johnny Cash role drove Phoenix to drink

Joaquin Phoenix developed an alcohol dependency while filming his role as Johnny Cash in the new movie biopic Walk The Line.

Country singer Cash, who was a renowned drinker, prompted actor Phoenix into increasing his alcohol intake for a better portrayal of the character.

Gladiator star Phoenix, 30, realised his problem was getting out of control and in April checked himself into a rehab clinic when filming was over.

He tells London magazine Time Out: "It was then that I became aware of my drinking. I wasn't an everyday drinker but didn't have anything else to do, anything to hold me down.

"I was leaning on alcohol to make me feel ok. That's what it really was."