In a delightful revelation at the 74th Berlinale International Film Festival in Berlin, Germany, Rooney Mara, the acclaimed actress known for her role in "Carol," unveiled her pregnancy with her second child with partner Joaquin Phoenix, the Oscar-winning actor celebrated for his role in "Joker."
Mara, 38, elegantly showcased her baby bump while donning a chic black strapless Givenchy gown, capturing the attention of photographers and attendees as she celebrated the premiere of her new film, "The Kitchen," as reported by Page Six.
This announcement marks a new chapter for Mara and Phoenix, 49, who previously welcomed their first child, a son named River, in August 2020. The couple chose a poignant and heartfelt name for their son, honoring Phoenix's late brother, River Phoenix, whose life was tragically cut short at the age of 23 due to a drug overdose in 1993.
Rooney Mara is pregnant, expecting baby No. 2 with Joaquin Phoenix https://t.co/lNqBTGaY2g pic.twitter.com/Wdi61DHFpl — Page Six (@PageSix) February 18, 2024
A source close to the couple shared with Us Weekly in May 2021, "River has enhanced their lives more than they've ever imagined and has brought them closer together." The couple, known for their privacy, aims to provide River with a "normal, healthy upbringing," away from the relentless glare of the public eye.
The story of Mara and Phoenix's relationship traces back to their collaboration on the set of Spike Jonze's film "Her," though it wasn't until their work together on "Mary Magdalene" that their romance blossomed. Phoenix, in a candid admission to Vanity Fair in October 2019, recounted his initial misconception that Mara "despised" him, only to later understand her shyness and mutual interest. "She's the only girl I ever looked up on the internet," Phoenix revealed, highlighting the depth of his affection.
In July 2019, the couple announced their engagement, further solidifying their bond. Both Mara and Phoenix are staunch vegans, a lifestyle choice deeply ingrained in their personal and professional lives. Phoenix, who has been vocal about his veganism, even incorporating it into his Oscar acceptance speech, expressed his hopes for River to adopt veganism while emphasizing the importance of not imposing his beliefs on his son.
Despite reaching out, representatives for Mara and Phoenix have not commented on the pregnancy news. However, the couple's commitment to their family and principles remains evident. In 2020, they voiced their concern for children separated from their parents at the U.S.-Mexico border, empathizing with the unimaginable pain of such a separation as new parents themselves.
As Mara and Phoenix prepare to welcome their second child, their journey continues to resonate with many who admire their talent, activism, and dedication to privacy and family. The couple's evolving narrative, from their cinematic collaborations to their growing family, remains a testament to their shared values and enduring partnership.
