Heath Ledger dies in New York, 'Dark Knight' to be final film performance

Tuesday, January 22, 2008

The story is everywhere now. The facts can easily be sifted through. The New York Times is pretty much on top of it, and therein you can read the details. But personally, after the inexplicable initial burst of speechlessness, an affliction to which I rarely succumb, the truth settled in with crystal, eerily iconic clarity: Heath Ledger has died.

Here is the AP story.

The reports are currently attributing the death to being drug-related (over the counter sleeping pills, according to the Times), which does not, presently, reflect suicide as the certain cause. Sadly, according to police, it seems to be the apparent one. (UPDATE: After hearing about the possibility of pneumonia several hours ago, I'm now seeing the item pop up in television news briefs. Both Fox News and CNN are now indicating that it appears suicide is not in the equation. The New York Times also now has comprehensive on-going coverage.)

Ledger was in the middle of shooting Terrry Gilliam's latest project, "The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus." In fact, these recently circulated photos of Ledger on the set, being hung by a noose for a sequence in the film, send a shiver down one's spine with the afternoon's revelations.

The actor was one of the most promising and gifted thespians of his generation, having shot to new heights with a crushing and revered portrayal two years ago in Ang Lee's "Brokeback Mountain." His latest performance was in Todd Haynes' experimental Bob Dylan biopic, "I'm Not There."

Ledger completed filming on Christopher Nolan's "Batman Begins" sequel, "The Dark Knight," late last year. Depending on where Gilliam was on "Imaginirium" at the time of the actor's death, it seems fair to assume the iconic role of the Joker as Ledger's cinematic swan song.

It is no secret that I count myself rather high on the list of Batman fans and fanatics around the world. Nolan's decision to cast Ledger in this pivotal role was an exciting one to me, the sort of brave choice that had come to define this recently re-incarnated franchise. As such, it was (and remains) with great anticipation that I look forward to the actor's work in the film, work that seems to be corroborate with the behind-the-scenes praise emanating from the set of the Warner Bros. project. One glance at the trailer alone keyed us in to the fact that Ledger was chewing on potential greatness, and now, well, the film seems to have taken on a whole other meaning in some ways.

The question that immidiately arises is, was the character set for the third installment in the series? Did he have a pivotal role to play in the final act of a trilogy long planned out, in broad strokes, by screenwriter David Goyer and director Christopher Nolan? Whatever the answer to that question might be, we're left, regardless, mourning the loss of a true acting talent, yes, but a husband and a father as well.

My sincere and deepest condolences go out, without a second's thought, to Michelle Williams and Matilda Rose. I truly hope you find the strength to make it through what promises to be a very trying time. Words rarely fail me, and here, they bring me to the end. There is nothing left to say.

UPDATED: The story is spreading like wildfire now. This comes in from the CBS affiliate in New York:

He was pronounced dead at 3:26 p.m. in his downtown Manhattan residence by his housekeeper, who discovered him in cardiac arrest and called 911, an NYPD spokesperson says. He was apparently scheduled to have a massage in his apartment this afternoon.

Sources tell CBS 2's Scott Weinberger the death may be drug-related and that there were pills scattered around the room.

EARLIER: The New York Times' City Room blog is now reporting on the same tragic turn of events. The death is apparently being attributed to suicide:

At 3:31 p.m., a masseuse arrived at Apartment 5A in the building for an appointment with Mr. Ledger, the police said. The masseuse was let in to the home by a housekeeper, who then knocked on the door of Mr. Ledger’s bedroom. When no one answered, the housekeeper and the masseuse opened the bedroom and found Mr. Ledger unconscious. They shook him, but he did not respond. They immediately called the authorities. The police said they did not suspect foul play and said they found pills near body.

More as it comes...

STILL EARLIER: TMZ.com is reporting that Heath Ledger is dead. This is developing at the moment, and I have no information other than the TMZ report (I know). But we'll need to follow up on this ASAP. Ledger's latest performance has yet to be seen, in the upcoming "The Dark Knight." Here's the story so far:

TMZ has learned that Academy Award nominee Heath Ledger has died in NY.

He was found dead in his bed in one of his residences in Soho by his housekeeper at 3:35 PM ET today. Law enforcement sources tell TMZ they believe it was not a crime.

The 28-year-old actor has a two year old daughter with former fiancee Michelle Williams. He plays The Joker in the upcoming Batman film, "The Dark Knight."

Posted at 1:56PM in |Permalink

Comments

Heath Ledger you are the best actor ever. Thank you for every thing you have done Heath. Heath Ledger R.I.P.

Posted by: Heath Ledger''s number 1 fan | 1/26/2008 7:04:19 PM

I have not felt so sad about the passing of a celebrity since Pete Duel left us on the final day of 1971. Both men seemed larger than life, but neither was. Heath Ledger, such a beautiful man with a visible aura. Seductive and exciting in A Knight's Tale, an emotional volcano in Brokeback Mountain, and who knows what is in store in The Dark Knight. A dark night it certainly was when the lovely Heath left us.

Posted by: skyhawk | 1/23/2008 11:18:03 PM

farewell my hero!!!

Posted by: harvey dent | 1/23/2008 3:31:19 PM

I think Heath was a good actor on the verge of greatness. I can't wait to see his performance in Dark Knight. What happens in the plot is important to his legacy. As for the comments regarding that nothing is more important than the fact that a man has died, I beg to differ. Many men, women and children die every day. This person was a movie star, so if people have concerns about a film, let them, remember its because he was an actor that we remember him!

Posted by: let's be real | 1/23/2008 1:47:59 PM

Heath, thanks for EVERITHING!!! I'll always miss you.

Posted by: Chiara | 1/23/2008 10:16:50 AM

There is absolutely nothing that suggests a suicide. Just a very tragic accident.

Posted by: HoneyWhite | 1/23/2008 9:42:32 AM

I'm an italian fan too, i have meet heath while he was shooting casanova in venice... he was very happy, happy for evrything he was doing, i can't believe that he suicide himself... bye heath, you still remain the number 1.

Posted by: Fil83 | 1/23/2008 8:54:05 AM

I'm an italian fan and I can't believe you're dead! I'm wordless, I won't never forget you, you were, you are and you will be forever in my heart! Thank you very much for all the emotions that you have given to me! I will continue watching all your beautiful movies. Heat, R.I.P!

Posted by: Luca | 1/23/2008 8:41:15 AM

I'm an italian Fan,and i'm very very sad for this. Heath you are still the nÂ°1. R.I.P.

Posted by: Screetc | 1/23/2008 8:17:35 AM

Dear Heath, I am sorry with all my heart about what happened. You have done a wonderful interpretation of the character "Joker", and you were my favorite actor ... We can not believe that you are dead, we can not believe that there are sciacalaggi! Give all my sympathy to the family, now Heath went to sleep and I hope one day raise according to the will of God. A hug to all the family of Heath Ledger, the great Joker that nobody can forget!

Posted by: Sanyinet | 1/23/2008 7:51:11 AM

Avete presente quelle telefonate a caldo, in cui una voce gelida, tremolante, vi suggerisce di star calmi? Beh, quando ho letto la news ho faticato a capirla. L'ho riletta una seconda, una terza e una quarta volta. Continuo a rileggerla perchÃ© non voglio assistere ad un altro sogno infranto. Non voglio un altro Brandon Lee sulla coscienza. Fuori ha smesso di piovere... ho consumato al cielo tutte le lacrime.

Posted by: Vito302 | 1/23/2008 7:47:00 AM

Heath Forever in my hearth!!

Posted by: Lucaint | 1/23/2008 7:10:11 AM

I'm jsut an Italian fan, and here, people like me, are soooo sad... thanks Heath. I'll see you again. Lots of love to the Family.

Posted by: Csam Cram | 1/23/2008 6:38:28 AM

Such a tragic happening for this gifted young man, a true actor, not interested in Hollywood, but the role -- his performance in Brokeback Mountain was so heartbrreaking, so beautifully capturing the sense of grief and heartache that goes with loss -- now we, like Ennis Del Marr whisper with longing, "Heath...I swear..." and remember...always remember.

Posted by: JOHN FOOTE | 1/23/2008 6:32:40 AM

Lets be honest. Its doesn't really matter about the Dark Knight...It doesn't really matter about a future oscar and it doesn't really matter about a wasted talent. All that really matters is that a father has died. Its terrible that this father was such a famous person because now, unfortunately for those close to hime, Heath Ledgers death is going to be spread over the news for a great many weeks to come. I think at the end of the day we would all give up the "batman" film to see heath alive and well again! RIP Heath!

Posted by: hdevas | 1/23/2008 12:44:57 AM

"The Dark Knight" indeed... This is the second death for this production... I am so absolutely sad for his child and his family.

Posted by: Alex | 1/22/2008 11:41:44 PM

The Joker was set up for a third film supposedly titled Shadow of the Bat. Now who knows whether Nolan will kill him off. But i'm sure he'll replace him, which might be the hardest thing he's ever done.

Posted by: messi | 1/22/2008 11:27:15 PM

Tremendously well-written and thoughtful, Kris. Thanks for one of the more level-headed and heartfelt obits.

Posted by: Noah | 1/22/2008 9:59:08 PM

A year from now I hope the Academy will announce that Heath Ledger has been nominated for his performance as the joker in The Dark Knight.

Posted by: Mr. Gittes | 1/22/2008 9:44:47 PM

I literally just spent the last month watching almost nothing but Heath Ledger movies. Evan as young as he was he was still one of the few remaining good talents in a slinking industry. He had so much to offer the creative world and no one really compares to what he could do with his roles. From Ned Kelly to Candy and even able to make a teen romantic comedy watchable. It is a shame that my favorite film for years will be related to such a tragedy. Hollywood and film in general is almost lost these days without guys like Heath.

Posted by: NedKelly | 1/22/2008 9:38:45 PM

Heath was a tremendous talent, his loss is heartbreaking. We can hail his work, but one cannot doubt the untapped potential that existed in him, what was, was simply the begining. It was a clear identifier of the great actor he was to become, and countless far more moving performances he had left to give us. I can only hope that his final role will make him as iconic and memorable as the very character he is playing. My condolences go to him and his family, especially his young daughter. Because even with the tremendous sadness I feel, I can never know the pain she does as she has lost more then any of us, she has lost her Dad. My Deepest Sincerities, RIP Mr.Ledger

Posted by: Ryan | 1/22/2008 8:31:33 PM

I just hope that people out there dont forgot that the real tragedy is him dying and his daughter losing her father. A small handful of people out there might be thinking what happens now with the joker are they going to change the plotline? To those people I say put things in perspective. R.I.P. Heath

Posted by: Oz_boyo | 1/22/2008 7:55:53 PM

Nobody would EVER do this as a marketing hook. Never. It's such a tragic event that's shadowing what should be a glorious day for the movie world. The audiences, his fans, the industry and especially his family have all been dealt a tremendous loss. Just terrible, devastating news and I'm glad that this place hasn't been infected with grossly unhuman trolls out to sully his name.

Posted by: Glenn | 1/22/2008 7:50:17 PM

I hoped it was a joke too. I followed all of the viral marketing. My friends and I even posted our pics with face paint for the site. I do not think heath would take part in such a horrible joke though. He has a sense of humor but not like this.

Posted by: kryptongurl84 | 1/22/2008 7:42:20 PM

A large part of me hopes this is some sort of sick joke... some ultimate viral marketing scheme for The Dark Knight. I hope that at the premiere, when a lot of us don't feel as bad about it, Heath gets outs of a limo, smiles, and asks "Why So Serious?". And yet, part of me knows this can't be the way it is. Watch out this summer, from everything I hear says Heath is amazing as the Joker.... and everything I have seen confirms he is a fine, young actor.

Posted by: Why So Serious? | 1/22/2008 7:13:39 PM

hollywoodchicago [dot] com has an excellent news story recapping Tuesday''s Heath Ledger news from ALL the major sites and film publications.

Posted by: Lara | 1/22/2008 6:58:01 PM

Absolutely devastating. I was shocked and I still can't believe it. It's taking awhile to sink in...he had so much success in store for him. As a batman fan as well, it's going to be hard to watch The Dark Night without that horrible empty feeling in my gut. R.I.P. Heath and god bless..

Posted by: Nicole | 1/22/2008 6:48:09 PM

I hope you have found peace, Heath. Condolences to his family and friends.

Posted by: Michelle | 1/22/2008 6:45:23 PM

There's not much that can be said when someone so young, and with so much potential, is lost, as Heath Ledger was today. His final major performances are easily among the best of anybody of his generation, as anybody who saw Brokeback Mountain will undoubtedly agree, and it looks like his turn as comic-book icon The Joker will immortalize him and endear him to even more people. It's just too bad we lost him as he was hitting his stride. Even worse than losing one of our finest actors is losing a father. My most sincere condolences to his friends and family, and especially his young daughter. Rest In Peace, Heath- we will truly miss you.

Posted by: Adam Gougeon | 1/22/2008 6:43:29 PM

God bless you Heath. RIP. And God bless all the family and friends and even fans in mourning right now.

Posted by: Michael | 1/22/2008 6:20:54 PM

I feel thankful we have one more film to watch his singular talent. He was fine in I'm Not There and you just felt the best was yet to come. I haven't seen Candy but I read he was great in that and I loved seeing him in the lighter role of Casanova. One thing: I thought he was married too but he was engaged to Michele Williams when they broke it off last fall.

Posted by: daveylow | 1/22/2008 6:17:00 PM

I was absolutely shocked when I heard of the news. I felt we have really missed out on an enormous talent, especially one who was on the verge of becoming very, very big. When I heard of Heath being cast as the Joker, my thoughts were this is going to be very interesting. I was very hopeful knowing that he would give a very distinct and nuanced performance. I hope that people do not shy away from his last role onscreen and instead honor him by watching the movie. My sincerest condolences to his family and friends

Posted by: Nicholas | 1/22/2008 5:47:40 PM

This was a big shocker. I don't think anyone should read these details surrounding his death without remembering his talent, his seeming interest in fatherhood and commitment to his friends. He appeared to be a young man destined for great accolades. The sadness lies in the fact that there is a family and relations who will miss him more than we could ever know Heath from a mere acting portrayal or interview. This is a sad one.

Posted by: ellygatoresque | 1/22/2008 5:17:52 PM

A couple months ago, I began telling people that Heath Ledger would see his second Oscar nomination as The Joker in 2009 Oscars... now it seems like it's more likely.

Posted by: McAllister | 1/22/2008 5:16:51 PM

Believe me, I have thought about that, even before today's turn of events. But we'll see. We'll see.

Posted by: Kristopher Tapley | 1/22/2008 3:36:19 PM

Kris, I'm just gonna come out and say this; please don't think badly of me. My true sympathies to his family. For this to have happened today of all days, doesn't it make at least a small part of you think about Ledger's upcoming Joker performance, and all the potential of today's other movie news related to that? His passing could be a story that will last until at least one year from today; if he is as fantastic as the joker as everyone believes than this story will surely play all the way into next fall, and so on, and so on. There. I've said it. RIP.

Posted by: goodvibe61 | 1/22/2008 3:30:46 PM