Joaquin Phoenix Toronto Film Festival: Who is Blonde 'Girlfriend' Heather Christie?

Actor Joaquin Phoenix is back in the Hollywood spotlight with his highly-anticipated role in "The Master" (his first film role in two years). At the movie's premiere at the Toronto Film Festival, the 37-year-old was spotted walking the red carpet with a tall blonde beauty by the name Heather Christie. So while fans and critics buzz about Phoenix's big "come back," others begin to wonder - who is this Christie gal?

Turns out 26-year-old Heather Christie is a model/actress from Simi Valley, California who goes by the nickname "Nika." Christie was formerly in a long-term relationship with Red Hot Chili Peppers front man Anthony Kiedis, the couple broke it off in the summer of 2008. They have a 5-year-old son together, Everly Bear. Following their split Christie told People magazine, "Anthony is a great dad and I will love him forever for giving me the gift of life. I really hope he finds what he's looking for."

Check out the two walk the Toronto Film Festival red carpet here.

As for Phoenix and Christie's current relationship, a source tells the Daily News, "They have been dating for quite a few months now and he asked her to join him. It just recently got serious between them." The source also confirms that Phoenix has bonded with Christie's son and would make a great dad. "He's surprisingly really great with kids."

It's rumored that Phoenix has held former romantic ties with Liv Tyler, Anna Paquin, and Aria Crescendo.

"The Master" was released today (Friday, Sept. 14). Check out a sneak peak clip here. Phoenix plays a "drifter" in the 1950s who begins working with a popular faith-based organization ran by "The Master."