Heath Ledger: 1979 - 2008
Heath Ledger, aged 28 and co-star of Oscar-winning movie Brokeback Mountain, was found dead Tuesday in a New York City apartment.
Reports indicate that Ledger was found by a housekeeper and masseuse, with whom he had an appointment, at approximately 3:30pm EST on Tuesday January 22nd. Police state that although the exact cause of death is still being investigated, Ledger was found face down and naked on a bed, surrounded by pills. "We are investigating the possibility of an overdose," said police spokesman Paul Browne.
Mara Buxbaum, Ledger’s publicist, issued a statement saying, "We are all deeply saddened and shocked by this accident. This is an extremely difficult time for his loved ones and we are asking the media to please respect the family’s privacy."
Ledger will appear as The Joker in this summer's Batman Begins sequel, The Dark Knight, one of the year's most highly anticipated movies. Aged 28, Ledger leaves behind a daughter aged two, Matilda.
Kim Ledger, Heath's father, released the following statement on Australian television:
"We, Heath's family, confirm, the very tragic, untimely and accidental passing of our dearly loved son, brother and doting father of Matilda. He was found peacefully asleep in his New York apartment by his housekeeper at 3:30 p.m. U.S. time.
We would like to thank our friends and everyone around the world for their well wishes and kind thoughts at this time. Heath has touched so many people on so many different levels during his short life but few had the pleasure of truly knowing him.
He was a down to earth, generous, kind-hearted, life-loving and selfless individual who was extremely inspirational to many. Please now respect our families need to grieve and come to terms with our loss privately."
Hollywood tributes
Following the tragic news, many of Hollywood's leading names have left tributes for the once promising star.
Alan Horn, President and CEO of Warner Bros. said:
"The studio is stunned and devastated by this tragic news. The entertainment community has lost an enormous talent. Heath was a brilliant actor and an exceptional person. Our hearts go out to his family and friends."
Mel Gibson:
"I had such great hope for him, he was just taking off and to lose his life at such a young age is a tragic loss."
Nicole Kidman:
"What a terrible tragedy. My heart goes out to his family."
John Travolta:
"His abilities are rare...it's a tremendous loss."
Promising future cut short
Ledger was widely regarded as one of the most exciting male prospects in Hollywood and had been nominated for Oscars, Golden Globes and BAFTAs among other awards. In 2007, he was chosen by Empire magazine as one of the 100 sexiest movie stars in the world.