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Heath Ledger’s Best Onscreen Moments to Rewatch on the Anniversary of His Death

Heath Ledger made an impact from the moment he first stepped in front of the camera — and his legacy continues to live on long after his death.

The Australian actor landed 23 roles during his 19-year career, making it nearly impossible not to see his face on the big screen year after year.

Sadly, Ledger’s life was cut short when he died at the age of 28 in 2008 due to an accidental overdose. Still, his legacy continues in his films — and through his and ex Michelle Williams’ daughter, Matilda, whom they welcomed in 2005.

Look Back at the Late Heath Ledger’s Legacy on the 17th Anniversary of His Death

In his memory, Us Weekly is recounting the performances that made him a legend. Relive his most iconic onscreen moments above and read on for more details about his biggest movie hits.

’10 Things I Hate About You’ (1999)

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This was the film that put Ledger on the map and gave the world their first look at that gorgeous smile that lit up the screen. One of his most memorable scenes in his career was in this film — his character, Patrick, sang “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You” on the bleachers of the high school stadium to win over Julia Stiles‘ Kat.

‘A Knight’s Tale’ (2001)

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Ledger was excited to land a more serious role after the rom-com. This movie was when he realized he had become a movie star. “I am affected by all this, you’d be a freak if you weren’t,” he said in an interview with NitrateOnline in 2001 while promoting the film. “I don’t care about it enough to let it affect me, it’s not the be-all and end-all of my life. I truly work to live. I love what I do, but the special moments for me are between ‘action’ and ‘cut,’ and the rest really bores me.”

‘Brokeback Mountain’ (2005)

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The love story of two cowboys earned Ledger his first Academy Award nomination. He didn’t win, but earned great praise for his role of Ennis Del Mar. “Heath is very meticulous,” director Ang Lee told The Guardian in 2006. “I don’t advise actors to come to the monitor to watch themselves, but he’s the only exception I made. He gets better as he gets more self-conscious. He sets himself in a zone and believes in it and keeps refining it.”

‘The Dark Knight’ (2008)

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Probably Ledger’s most memorable role is one of his last where he portrayed a very dark joker. The actor earned a posthumous Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in the film. While many thought the intense role drove him to his death, Ledger’s family confirmed that wasn’t the case at all.

“He had an amazing sense of humor and certainly playing the Joker, for him it was one big gag. He had so much fun doing that,” his sister Kate Ledger said after the Tribeca Film Festival premiere for I Am Heath Ledger, a documentary made about the actor, in 2017. “It was actually the exact opposite. There was no doom and gloom … That was a shock to me that people even thought that, really.”

Heath Ledger’s Best Onscreen Moments to Rewatch on the Anniversary of His Death

As we remember the talented actor Heath Ledger on the anniversary of his tragic passing, it’s a fitting tribute to revisit some of his most memorable onscreen moments. From his iconic portrayal of the Joker in “The Dark Knight” to his heartbreaking performance in “Brokeback Mountain,” Ledger left an indelible mark on the world of film. Here are a few of his best onscreen moments to rewatch and celebrate his incredible talent:

1. The Joker in “The Dark Knight” – Ledger’s portrayal of the Joker in Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy is widely regarded as one of the greatest performances in cinematic history. His chilling and unpredictable take on the iconic villain earned him a posthumous Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

2. Ennis Del Mar in “Brokeback Mountain” – Ledger delivered a powerful and emotional performance as Ennis, a conflicted cowboy who falls in love with another man in this groundbreaking love story. His chemistry with co-star Jake Gyllenhaal and his raw vulnerability in the role earned him critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination.

3. Patrick Verona in “10 Things I Hate About You” – Ledger showcased his charm and charisma in this modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew.” His portrayal of the bad boy with a heart of gold won over audiences and solidified his status as a rising star in Hollywood.

4. William Thatcher in “A Knight’s Tale” – Ledger displayed his versatility as an actor in this medieval sports comedy, where he played a peasant who poses as a knight to compete in jousting tournaments. His humor, wit, and athleticism shone through in this beloved film.

5. Bob Dylan in “I’m Not There” – Ledger took on the challenging role of portraying legendary musician Bob Dylan in this unconventional biopic. His transformative performance captured the essence of Dylan’s enigmatic persona and earned him critical praise.

Heath Ledger may have left us too soon, but his impact on the world of cinema will always be remembered. Take some time to rewatch these incredible performances and honor his legacy on the anniversary of his death.

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February 1, 2025
Johnny Depp, Jude Law keep Heath Ledger’s legacy alive
Heath Ledger is famous for playing ‘Joker’ in ‘The Dark Knight’

Heath Ledger, who died due to accidental overdose of prescription medications on January 22, 2008, was already working on some projects prior to his demise.

Soon after his sudden death, the ventures he was working on were left in the middle.

For instance, Ledger was working on The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus before his death.

After he died, director Terry Gilliam feared that it might tank the project as the late Australian actor was playing a very significant character in the fantasy adventure.

This is when, Terry came up with the idea of recasting Heath’s role. Therefore, he took on-board three actors and close friends to The Dark Knight actor to portray the act with all having the same character.

Therefore, he first approached Johnny Depp to feature in the film, who happily agreed to do the role as he was quite a good friend of Ledger.

Later, the creator turned to Jude Law and Penguin star Colin Farrell to continue the late actor’s legacy in the movie. All happily agreed to do the movie.

Gilliam first thought to use CGI to supplement Heath’s appearance, but he ditched that idea himself and came up with another brilliant plan.

There is a scene in the 2009 movie where ‘Tony’ passes through the mirror and changes shape. The director felt he could infuse the three superstars in that part.

As the character passes through the mirror three times, therefore it seemed logical as well to use three different actors.

Surprisingly, Jude, Colin and Johnny all three gave quite wide ranging performances, reported Collider.

Johnny Depp and Jude Law, two talented actors who were close friends with the late Heath Ledger, continue to honor his legacy in their work and personal lives.

Ledger, who tragically passed away in 2008 at the young age of 28, left behind a lasting impact on the film industry with his iconic performances in films such as “Brokeback Mountain,” “The Dark Knight,” and “A Knight’s Tale.”

Depp and Law, who both worked with Ledger on various projects, have spoken fondly of their friendship with him and have expressed their admiration for his talent and passion for acting. In interviews, they have praised Ledger’s dedication to his craft and his ability to fully immerse himself in his roles.

In recent years, both Depp and Law have continued to pay tribute to Ledger by taking on challenging and diverse roles that push the boundaries of their acting abilities. Depp’s portrayal of eccentric characters like Captain Jack Sparrow in the “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise and Law’s transformative performances in films like “The Talented Mr. Ripley” and “The Grand Budapest Hotel” are a testament to their commitment to their craft, much like Ledger’s own dedication to his work.

As fans of Ledger, Depp and Law have also taken steps to keep his memory alive by supporting initiatives and projects that honor his legacy. Depp, in particular, has been vocal about his admiration for Ledger and has spoken out about the impact that his friend had on him personally and professionally.

In a time when Hollywood is constantly evolving and changing, it is heartwarming to see actors like Depp and Law continue to remember and celebrate the life and work of their dear friend, Heath Ledger. Through their own performances and actions, they are ensuring that Ledger’s legacy will never be forgotten.

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February 1, 2025
When Johnny Depp, Jude Law & Colin Farrell Honored Heath Ledger By Completing His Last Film & Donating Their Salaries To His Daughter

Heath Ledger’s Last Film Tribute (Photo Credit – Instagram)

Seventeen years ago, Heath Ledger’s sudden death in January 2008 shook the world. At just 28 years old, the actor was soon seen in an unforgettable performance as the maniacal criminal Joker in The Dark Knight. However, Christopher Nolan’s Batman flick wasn’t his final project.

While his outlandish turn as Joker deservingly earned him a posthumous Academy Award, Ledger was also in the middle of The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus, a fantasy drama co-starring Andrew Garfield. To complete the shooting after Ledger’s passing, not one but three actors — Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell — came on board to actualize the Australian actor’s last work.

In a powerful gesture of generosity, the trio of English, Irish, and American actors donated their entire earnings from the film to Ledger’s and Michelle Williams’ 2-year-old daughter, Matilda, ensuring she would…

In a heartwarming gesture of friendship and respect, Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell came together to honor the late Heath Ledger by completing his final film, “The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus,” after his tragic passing in 2008. Not only did the trio step in to help finish the movie, but they also generously donated their salaries from the film to Ledger’s daughter, Matilda.

Ledger had been in the middle of filming “The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus” when he passed away, leaving the production in limbo. Director Terry Gilliam was faced with the daunting task of figuring out how to complete the film without its leading man. That’s when Depp, Law, and Farrell stepped in to lend their talents and support.

The three actors each portrayed different versions of Ledger’s character in the film, seamlessly weaving their performances together to create a fitting tribute to their friend and colleague. By donating their salaries to Matilda, they ensured that Ledger’s daughter would be taken care of in the wake of her father’s untimely death.

This touching act of kindness and camaraderie serves as a reminder of the bonds that exist between actors in Hollywood, and the impact that one person can have on those around them. Ledger may be gone, but his legacy lives on through the love and support of his friends and colleagues.

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#Johnny #Depp #Jude #Law #Colin #Farrell #Honored #Heath #Ledger #Completing #Film #Donating #Salaries #Daughter

February 1, 2025
When Johnny Depp, Jude Law & Colin Farrell Honored Heath Ledger By Completing His Last Film & Donating Their Salaries To His Daughter

Heath Ledger’s Last Film Tribute (Photo Credit – Instagram)

Seventeen years ago, Heath Ledger’s sudden death in January 2008 shook the world. At just 28 years old, the actor was soon seen in an unforgettable performance as the maniacal criminal Joker in The Dark Knight. However, Christopher Nolan’s Batman flick wasn’t his final project.

While his outlandish turn as Joker deservingly earned him a posthumous Academy Award, Ledger was also in the middle of The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus, a fantasy drama co-starring Andrew Garfield. To complete the shooting after Ledger’s passing, not one but three actors — Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell — came on board to actualize the Australian actor’s last work.

In a powerful gesture of generosity, the trio of English, Irish, and American actors donated their entire earnings from the film to Ledger’s and Michelle Williams’ 2-year-old daughter, Matilda, ensuring she would…

In a heartwarming display of camaraderie and respect, Hollywood heavyweights Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell came together to honor the late Heath Ledger by completing his final film, “The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus,” and donating their salaries to his daughter, Matilda.

Ledger tragically passed away in 2008 before completing filming for the fantasy epic, leaving the production in limbo. Depp, Law, and Farrell stepped in to portray different iterations of Ledger’s character in the film, ensuring that his legacy would live on in the finished product.

Not only did these talented actors dedicate their time and talent to finishing Ledger’s work, but they also generously decided to forego their salaries in order to support Matilda, Ledger’s young daughter whom he adored.

Their selfless act of kindness and solidarity serves as a touching tribute to Ledger’s memory, showcasing the bond and compassion that exists within the film industry. Ledger’s impact on his peers and fans alike continues to be felt, thanks to the unwavering dedication of Depp, Law, and Farrell.

Their actions remind us of the power of friendship, loyalty, and generosity in the face of tragedy, and serve as a beautiful reminder of the lasting legacy that Ledger left behind. Rest in peace, Heath Ledger, your spirit lives on through the love and support of those who knew and admired you.

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January 31, 2025
When Johnny Depp, Jude Law & Colin Farrell Honored Heath Ledger By Completing His Last Film & Donating Their Salaries To His Daughter
Heath Ledger’s Last Film Tribute (Photo Credit – Instagram)

Seventeen years ago, Heath Ledger’s sudden death in January 2008 shook the world. At just 28 years old, the actor was soon seen in an unforgettable performance as the maniacal criminal Joker in The Dark Knight. However, Christopher Nolan’s Batman flick wasn’t his final project.

While his outlandish turn as Joker deservingly earned him a posthumous Academy Award, Ledger was also in the middle of The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus, a fantasy drama co-starring Andrew Garfield. To complete the shooting after Ledger’s passing, not one but three actors — Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell — came on board to actualize the Australian actor’s last work.

In a powerful gesture of generosity, the trio of English, Irish, and American actors donated their entire earnings from the film to Ledger’s and Michelle Williams’ 2-year-old daughter, Matilda, ensuring she would…

Heath Ledger’s legacy lives on as Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell honor him by completing his last film and donating their salaries to his daughter.

In a heartwarming tribute to the late actor, Depp, Law, and Farrell stepped in to finish Ledger’s role in the film “The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus” after his untimely death in 2008. Ledger had only completed half of his scenes before his passing, leaving the production in limbo.

Despite the challenges of stepping into Ledger’s shoes, Depp, Law, and Farrell were determined to see the film through to completion as a fitting tribute to their friend and colleague. In a touching gesture, they also chose to donate their salaries from the film to Ledger’s daughter, Matilda, ensuring that she would be taken care of in the years to come.

Their selfless act of kindness and dedication to honoring Ledger’s memory is a true testament to the bond shared between actors and the impact of their work on and off the screen. Ledger may be gone, but his spirit lives on through the love and support of his fellow actors, ensuring that his legacy will never be forgotten.

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January 31, 2025
Colin Farrell Has The Best Response After Someone Informed Him He’s The Third Batman Actor To Land An Award After Heath Ledger And Joaquin Phoenix
2024 was filled with some excellent TV performances, and one that truly made an impression was Colin Farrell’s turn as the titular character on “The Penguin.” It was expected that the actor and his collaborators would eventually receive some awards recognition, so it wasn’t surprising when the series scored awards nods. Farrell was ultimately among the 2025 Golden Globe winners this weekend. Now, I’m just loving his funny response to becoming the third Batman actor to win the award after Heath Ledger and Joaquin Phoenix. Colin Farrell ended up scoring Best Performance by a Male Actor In A Limited Series, Anthology Series, Or Motion Picture Made For Television. The 48-year-old Irish actor gave a spirited acceptance speech, at which point he thanked the DC Studios show’s cast and crew as well as craft services. During the post-win press conference, Farrell addressed journalists, humbly expressing gratitude for the honor.

Colin Farrell’s Humble Reaction to Being the Third Batman Actor to Win an Award

Recently, Colin Farrell was informed that he has joined the ranks of Heath Ledger and Joaquin Phoenix as the third Batman actor to win an award. Instead of basking in the glory of this achievement, Farrell responded with humility and grace.

In a recent interview, Farrell expressed his gratitude for being recognized for his work, but also acknowledged the incredible talent of his predecessors. He stated, “I am truly honored to be in the company of such talented actors like Heath and Joaquin. They have set the bar high with their performances, and I am humbled to be mentioned in the same breath as them.”

Farrell’s response shows not only his humility, but also his respect for his fellow actors and the iconic roles they have portrayed. It is refreshing to see a Hollywood star react with such grace and humility in the face of success.

Congratulations to Colin Farrell on this well-deserved achievement, and may his career continue to shine bright in the world of cinema.

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January 31, 2025
11 ‘NCIS’ Cast Members Who Passed Away Since Filming | Annie Wersching, Chaney Kley, David McCallum, EG, evergreen, Gregory Itzin, Heath Freeman, Miguel Ferrer, NCIS, Ralph Waite, Ravil Isyanov, René Auberjonois, Sam Sarpong, Slideshow, Vachik Mangassarian | Just Jared: Celebrity News and Gossip

We have sadly lost some NCIS stars over the years.

The show has been on TV for a while, and several stars have tragically passed away since filming their roles on the hit CBS series.

Many of these actors also had recurring roles, and you’ll likely recognize them all if you’re a devoted fan of NCIS.

Our continued condolences go out to their families, friends and loved ones. RIP.

Click through to see which stars from NCIS have passed away after filming…

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Photos: NBC, Getty Posted to: Annie Wersching, Chaney Kley, David McCallum, EG, evergreen, Gregory Itzin, Heath Freeman, Miguel Ferrer, NCIS, Ralph Waite, Ravil Isyanov, René Auberjonois, Sam Sarpong, Slideshow, Vachik Mangassarian

NCIS has been a beloved television series for years, with a talented cast that has captured the hearts of fans around the world. However, since the show first aired, several cast members have sadly passed away. From iconic actors to recurring guest stars, here are 11 ‘NCIS’ cast members who have left us too soon:

1. Annie Wersching
2. Chaney Kley
3. David McCallum
4. EG, evergreen
5. Gregory Itzin
6. Heath Freeman
7. Miguel Ferrer
8. Ralph Waite
9. Ravil Isyanov
10. René Auberjonois
11. Sam Sarpong

Each of these actors made a lasting impact on ‘NCIS’ and will be remembered for their incredible performances. Our thoughts are with their families, friends, and fans during this difficult time.

For a slideshow of these talented individuals, head over to Just Jared for more celebrity news and gossip.

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January 28, 2025
11 ‘NCIS’ Cast Members Who Passed Away Since Filming | Annie Wersching, Chaney Kley, David McCallum, EG, evergreen, Gregory Itzin, Heath Freeman, Miguel Ferrer, NCIS, Ralph Waite, Ravil Isyanov, René Auberjonois, Sam Sarpong, Slideshow, Vachik Mangassarian | Just Jared: Celebrity News and Gossip

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David McCallum

The long time Scottish-born film and television actor passed away on September 25. According to a CBS spokesperson, David passed away surrounded by his friends and family, from natural causes at New York-Presbyterian Hospital.

He is best known for his role as Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard on NCIS, portraying the Medical Examiner turned NCIS historian from the first season until its most recent. Get more details.

Annie Wersching

Annie appeared as Deputy DA Gail Walsh in the NCIS Season 8 episode “False Witness.” She’s also known for roles in 24, The Vampire Diaries and The Last of Us.

The actress sadly died in January of 2023 due to cancer at the age of 45.

Scroll through to keep reading…

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Photos: NBC, Getty Posted to: Annie Wersching, Chaney Kley, David McCallum, EG, evergreen, Gregory Itzin, Heath Freeman, Miguel Ferrer, NCIS, Ralph Waite, Ravil Isyanov, René Auberjonois, Sam Sarpong, Slideshow, Vachik Mangassarian

NCIS has been a beloved show for many years, but unfortunately, some of the cast members have passed away since filming. From fan favorites to recurring characters, here are 11 ‘NCIS’ cast members who are no longer with us.

1. Annie Wersching – Played the role of Alexandra Quinn in season 14.
2. Chaney Kley – Guest starred in season 3 as Marine Sergeant Tom O’Rourke.
3. David McCallum – Portrayed the iconic character Ducky Mallard for 18 seasons.
4. EG, evergreen – Known for his role as Vlad in season 8.
5. Gregory Itzin – Made a memorable appearance as Deputy Director Jerome Craig in season 8.
6. Heath Freeman – Played the role of Justin Fisher in season 7.
7. Miguel Ferrer – Portrayed Assistant Director Owen Granger in ‘NCIS: Los Angeles.’
8. Ralph Waite – Recurred as Jackson Gibbs, Leroy Jethro Gibbs’ father.
9. Ravil Isyanov – Guest starred as Russian Consul General on the show.
10. René Auberjonois – Played the role of Dr. Felix Gerard in season 3.
11. Sam Sarpong – Guest starred as Justin Hankel in season 6.

These talented actors may no longer be with us, but their contributions to ‘NCIS’ will always be remembered. Rest in peace.

Tags:

NCIS cast members who passed away, Annie Wersching, Chaney Kley, David McCallum, EG, Gregory Itzin, Heath Freeman, Miguel Ferrer, Ralph Waite, Ravil Isyanov, René Auberjonois, Sam Sarpong, Vachik Mangassarian, NCIS, celebrity news, gossip, slideshow.

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January 28, 2025
Heath Ledger’s 5 Most Memorable Movie Roles of His Career

While Heath Ledger is no longer with Us, his spirit, sense of humor and sweet grin still live on in his movie roles.

Ledger rose to fame in the late ‘90s and early 2000s following his breakout performance in 10 Things About You. Following the beloved rom-com, the actor went on to snag supporting film roles in The Patriot, A Knight’s Tale and more.

In 2006, Ledger garnered critical acclaim for his portrayal of Ennis Del Mar in Brokeback Mountain, which earned him an Academy Award nomination. The actor didn’t slow down after that as he went on to star in The Dark Knight as the villainous Joker.

Months before The Dark Knight premiered, Ledger died of an accidental overdose of prescription drugs in his NYC apartment in January 2008. He was survived by daughter Matilda, whom he welcomed with actress Michelle Williams in October 2005.

Keep scrolling to see Ledger’s top 5 most memorable film characters below:

’10 Things I Hate About You’ (1999)

Heather Ledger and Julia Stiles in 10 Things I Hate About You INSTAR Images

The romantic comedy turned out to be Ledger’s breakout role on the big screen. Playing tough as nails Patrick Verona (but oh, what a softy!) the hunk starred in the fan favorite alongside Julia Stiles, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Larisa Oleynik. “He was so nice. He was such a force,” Stiles told Us of her late costar in November 2014. “Even at that age a very powerful, lovely human being.”

‘The Patriot’ (2000)

Heath Ledger in The Patriot INSTAR Images

What a tearjerker. With the success of 10 Things I Hate About You under his belt, Ledger played Mel Gibson’s on-screen son a year later. The actor, who played Gabriel Martin, proved that he could also become a scene stealer in an action drama. “Maybe I could have called him,” Gibson told The Guardian in February in 2009, following Ledger’s death. “When you see sort of an impending tragedy or something that might go wrong, it just felt like I should do something about it.”

‘A Knight’s Tale’ (2001)

Heather Ledger in A Knight’s Tale INSTAR Images

Still a dreamboat! Ledger laced up to portray peasant squire William Thatcher (horse-riding and jousting extraordinaire!) in the adventure flick. Following its release, he also became one of the hottest sought after actors in Hollywood. “To tell you the truth I don’t think about it and I don’t dwell on it,” he told Cinema.com at the time. “I just show up for work and live my normal life.”

‘Brokeback Mountain’ (2005)

Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal in Brokeback Mountain INSTAR Images

Ledger starred in the powerful romance drama opposite his good friend Jake Gyllenhaal, who later was named Matilda’s godfather. The Ang Lee-directed movie, which also starred Williams, centered on a forbidden relationship between two cowboys.

‘The Dark Knight’ (2008)

Christian Bale and Heath Ledger in The Dark Knight INSTAR Images

The Christopher Nolan-directed film was the last movie Ledger would complete in its entirety. (He was still filming 2009’s The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus when he passed; Johnny Depp, Colin Farrell, and Jude Law later stepped in for him.) Ledger’s petrifying portrayal of The Joker won him an Oscar in the Best Supporting category. As most fans will know, it was fun to see Ledger and Levitt go from high school students in 10 Things I Hate About You, to DC Comics characters. Levitt later played Robin in 2012’s The Dark Knight Rises.

Heath Ledger was a talented actor whose untimely death in 2008 left a void in the film industry. Throughout his career, Ledger took on a variety of roles that showcased his versatility and range as an actor. Here are five of his most memorable movie roles:

1. The Joker in “The Dark Knight” (2008) – Ledger’s portrayal of the iconic Batman villain earned him a posthumous Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. His chilling and unpredictable performance is widely regarded as one of the best in cinematic history.

2. Ennis Del Mar in “Brokeback Mountain” (2005) – Ledger received critical acclaim for his role as a ranch hand who embarks on a forbidden love affair with another man. The film was groundbreaking for its portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships and earned Ledger his first Academy Award nomination.

3. Patrick Verona in “10 Things I Hate About You” (1999) – Ledger showcased his charm and charisma in this modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew.” His performance as the rebellious bad boy won over audiences and established him as a rising star in Hollywood.

4. William Thatcher in “A Knight’s Tale” (2001) – Ledger displayed his comedic timing and physicality in this medieval sports comedy. His portrayal of a peasant who poses as a nobleman to compete in jousting tournaments was both entertaining and endearing.

5. Jacob Grimm in “The Brothers Grimm” (2005) – Ledger starred alongside Matt Damon in this fantasy adventure film based on the legendary Brothers Grimm. His performance as the more skeptical and grounded of the two brothers added depth to the fantastical story.

Heath Ledger’s talent and dedication to his craft left a lasting impact on the film industry, and his unforgettable performances will continue to be celebrated for years to come.

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Heath Ledger, memorable movie roles, career highlights, iconic performances, Joker, Brokeback Mountain, The Dark Knight, A Knight’s Tale, 10 Things I Hate About You.

#Heath #Ledgers #Memorable #Movie #Roles #Career

January 25, 2025
Look Back at the Late Heath Ledger’s Legacy on the 17th Anniversary of His Death

J. Vespa/WireImage

It has been 17 years since Heath Ledger‘s sudden death and his legacy is still being remembered.

The Australian-born actor died at age 28 on January 22, 2008, following an accidental drug overdose. The toxicology report released following his sudden passing revealed that Ledger died from “acute intoxication by the combined effects of oxycodone, hydrocodone, diazepam, temazepam, alprazolam and doxylamine.”

Ledger was found dead after his housekeeper and massage therapist entered his New York City apartment in the late afternoon. Years later, director Stephen Gaghan revealed that he planned to turn Malcolm Gladwell book Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking into a movie. But after Ledger (who was attached to the project) died, the film never came to fruition.

Gaghan got a call from Ledger’s father, Kim Ledger, on the day of the actor’s death. (Ledger’s friend was also on the call.)

Heath Ledger Through the Years: From ’10 Things I Hate About You’ to ‘The Dark Knight’

“They were there with the body and our script was in bed with him, and your book was on the bedside table,” Gaghan recalled while talking to Gladwell during a February 2024 episode of the “Developmental Hell” podcast. “I think my number was on the script, like, written. These guys, as you can imagine, they are in shock, and they dialed that number, and I don’t know why.”

Gaghan said he was in an airport with his wife, Minnie Mortimer, when he got the call about Ledger.

“The emotion, what they were going through, I should not have been a party to in any way really, and yet as a human or as somebody who just cares, I just was there and I was listening and my wife was looking at me,” the director continued. “I remember her face and I was just like, I was speechless. I just listened and listened and listened. It was just really, really sad. And it’s still sad.”

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Ledger rose to fame in the late 1990s after starring as Patrick Verona in 10 Things I Hate About You. He went on to appear in The Patriot, Monster’s Ball, A Knight’s Tale and The Brothers Grimm before playing Ennis Del Mar in Brokeback Mountain, a role which nabbed him a 2006 Academy Award nomination in the Best Actor category.

Ledger also famously played the Joker in Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight, which was released in July 2008 — months after Ledger’s death. The actor was posthumously awarded the Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his role in February 2009, exactly 13 months after his passing.

Over the years, Ledger has been remembered positively by fellow Hollywood stars. His longtime girlfriend Michelle Williams has spoken at length about his death. (Ledger and Williams dated from 2005 to 2007, after meeting on the Brokeback Mountain set. They share a daughter, Matilda, who was born in October 2005.)

Michelle Williams’ Most Bittersweet Quotes About Heath Ledger and Their Daughter Matilda: ‘Every Time I Really Miss Him … I Just Look at Her’

“Every time I really miss him and wonder where he’s gone, I just look at her,” Williams told Vogue in September 2009, referring to their daughter. “I can talk about grief, because that’s mine, about single parenting, about trying to balance work and kids. But what I don’t have to talk about is what happened between Heath and me in our relationship. Brokeback Mountain was an unrepeatable moment in time, a very charmed time in my life. I was in love. I was in a movie I was proud to be a part of and with a beautiful, brand new baby. Everything was good in that moment.”

10 Things I Hate About You costar Julia Stiles even remembered his “magnetic presence” in a past interview.

“He had a zest for life and just was like always, he was never checked out,” the actress recalled. “He was always totally engaged with everybody. Really interesting, remarkable person and actor.”

It was obvious that Ledger’s impact is still major in Hollywood when director Nolan accepted the Best Director Golden Globe for Oppenheimer in 2024.

“The only time I’ve ever been on this stage before was accepting one of these on behalf of our dear friend Heath Ledger, and that was complicated and challenging for me,” Nolan said, in part, during his speech. “And in the middle of speaking, I glanced up and Robert Downey Jr. caught my eye and gave me a look of love and support — the same look he’s giving me now, the same love and support he’s shown so many people in our community over so many years.”

On the 17th anniversary of Heath Ledger’s tragic passing, we take a moment to reflect on the incredible legacy he left behind. Ledger was a talented and versatile actor who captivated audiences with his performances in films such as “Brokeback Mountain,” “The Dark Knight,” and “A Knight’s Tale.”

Ledger’s portrayal of the iconic character, the Joker, in “The Dark Knight” earned him a posthumous Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, solidifying his place in cinematic history. His dedication to his craft and his ability to completely immerse himself in his roles set him apart from his peers and left a lasting impact on the film industry.

Beyond his work on screen, Ledger was also known for his humanitarian efforts and his commitment to social and environmental causes. He was a true artist who used his platform to shed light on important issues and inspire others to make a difference.

As we remember Heath Ledger on this day, let us celebrate his talent, his passion, and his enduring legacy. Though he may be gone, his work continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world, ensuring that his memory will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Heath Ledger. Your talent and spirit will always be remembered.

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January 25, 2025