Wednesday, January 23, 2008

Heath Ledger



I have always been a sci-fi/fantasy fan. (probably started with Star Wars when I was 10 years old). 10 years ago a fantasy show called Roar lasted about 6 episodes. I loved the show, but was probably the only person in the country who was watching it. It was written and produced by Shaun Cassidy (yes, the former love of my life when a pre-teen). It centered around a Celtic prince in Roman ruled Britain. The prince had such an incredible presence. I found out he was played by a young Aussie, Heath Ledger. When I discovered he was only 18 years old, I was stunned. So much talent for one so young.

He came into the mainstream not much later with 10 Things I Hate About You, one of the few teen movies out there that is a real gem. But I think most of us will always value his work in Brokeback Mountain the most.

Ledger was found dead in his apartment in NYC yesterday. The cause of death is unknown as of yet, but there is speculation it was an accidental overdose of sleeping pills. He leaves an ex-fiance, the talented actress Michelle Williams, and a 2 year old daughter. He was only 28 years old. It's such a tragic story - to leave family and loved ones so unexpectedly, and for all us not to be able to enjoy his gifts in the coming years. My heart goes out to his loved ones.

2 comments:

Lunar said...

Rio...Heath Ledger's death has stunned and saddened me as well. Despite being offered the opportunity to be a "teen idol" at the box office after 10 Things, he remained true to his art and sought projects of worth. His death is another tradegy of the loneliness and solitude of fame.

restless said...

Big shocker. So unexpected, though, of course the rest of us have no idea what his life is really like. Just that he kept his nose clean - no DUIS or late night pantyless escapades to tip us off that something like this was bound to happen. He was great in "I'm not There", one of the few movies i saw at a theatre last year.