Fans Think Joaquin Phoenix Referred to Partner Rooney Mara as a 'Filthy Dragon'

Joaquin Phoenix ended his speech at the Toronto International Film Festival‘s Tribute Gala with what appears to be a nod to his partner Rooney Mara.

The 44-year-old actor received the TIFF Tribute Actor Award for his work in Joker.

In his speech, he paid tribute to his late brother, River Phoenix, and thanked all who helped him along the way.

The last line of his speech seemed to be a nod to Rooney, where he said, “One last thing, somewhere here, I don’t know where, is a filthy dragon, and I want to rip its wings off and fasten a blanket and sleep with it forever…I love you. Thank you.”

A report emerged this summer that Rooney Mara and Joaquin Phoenix are engaged, but they have never confirmed the rumors.