Biography of Heath Ledger

Heathcliff Andrew Ledger grew up in Perth, Australia, with a love of acting that carried him to Hollywood while still a teenager. His sensitive, daring choices lit up films such as 10 Things I Hate About You, Brokeback Mountain, and The Patriot. In 2008 he poured himself into the role of the Joker in The Dark Knight, creating a performance of raw brilliance that earned him a posthumous Academy Award—the first for a superhero film. A devoted father to his young daughter Matilda, Heath approached life with curiosity and warmth. He passed unexpectedly on January 22, 2008, at age 28. His light still shines through every frame he touched, inspiring actors and audiences to embrace courage and authenticity.