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Discovery Channel
Last Days
River Phoenix
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Struggle with conscience:

At the height of his fame and at the age of only 21, River was one of Hollywood’s highest paid actors – a fact that didn’t sit easily with the ethical belief system at the heart of his upbringing. River was increasingly struggling with his conscience and under pressure from his father to quit Hollywood.

As a compromise, River was selective with his roles and devoted more time to his music and campaigning for human rights and environmental issues. His efforts won him an award from PETA, the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals.

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