At a glance…
- Oscar Award-winning actor Heath Ledger has become one of the most influential actors of his generation.
- Sadly, he died of an accidental overdose on 22 January 2008, at the age of 28.
- Despite passing away so young, the actor had some iconic roles in his time and has been named an “inspiration” by young actors today, like Jacob Elordi.
- In October 2026, his 10 Things I Hate About You co-star Julia Stiles paid tribute to him and his memorable singing and dancing scene in that movie on Dancing with The Stars.
The iconic post-humously Oscar-award-winning actor, Heath Ledger, has been one of the most influential actors of his generation.
In January 2026, following his own Oscar nomination, fellow Aussie actor Jacob Elordi paid tribute to Heath Ledger, calling him an “inspiration.”
“It really was a dream of mine, particularly because of Heath Ledger,” Jacob said on Jimmy Kimmel. “He showed me that it was possible. I’m 28 years old, and I got nominated 18 years to the day after he passed.”
Julia Stiles, who starred opposite Heath in the teen rom-com 10 Things I Hate About You, paid tribute to him during Dedication Week on Dancing with The Stars. Her dance was to “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” which Heath (as Patrick) performed in a memorable scene in the movie to sweep Julia’s character Kat off her feet. Julia even wore a blue dress in homage to the one her character wore to prom. She was joined on the dancefloor with their fellow castmates from the film, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Larisa Oleynik, Andrew Keegan, Gabrielle Union and Susan May Pratt.
“I said, if we had to have someone with us on stage representing Heath’s legacy or the film, I said it had to be the whole cast,” Julia told Variety after the performance. “I begged them, each and every one of them, and they all rallied. They really did.”
Rumours are swirling that a follow-up to the iconic teen movie (based on Taming of the Shrew by William Shakespeare) is being made.
With that in mind, it got us thinking about what the best Heath Ledger movies are in his filmography. The late actor had some incredible roles in his time, and it’s tragic to think about what could have been.
Heath Ledger starred in a number of well-loved and critically acclaimed films across genres, from romantic comedies to dark dramas. The acclaimed Australian actor best known for his roles in both Hollywood blockbusters and independent films.
Born on April 4, 1979, in Perth, Western Australia, he rose to fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s for his charismatic screen presence, emotional depth, and versatility.
DANCING WITH THE STARS (Photo by Eric McCandless/Disney via Getty Images)
Who was Heath Ledger’s partner?
Heath Ledger’s most well-known partner was Michelle Williams, the American actress he met while filming Brokeback Mountain in 2004. The two quickly fell in love and became one of Hollywood’s most talked-about couples at the time.
They welcomed a daughter, Matilda Rose Ledger, in October 2005. Heath and Michelle lived together in Brooklyn, New York, and were considered a private, grounded couple despite their fame. They separated in late 2007, just a few months before Heath’s death in January 2008.
Michelle Williams has spoken movingly about Heath in the years since his passing, often choosing to keep her comments brief out of respect for his memory and their daughter’s privacy. She has described him as a deeply talented and caring person, and a devoted father to Matilda.
Many years before Michelle, Heath dated Billy Zane’s sister, Lilly Zane, from 1997 to 1998. They met on the set of Roar. They lived together in LA and would often socialise with Billy and the Zane family. In an interview with SMH, Billy shared that Heath “was like my little brother” and that the two of them DJed together.
What are Heath Ledger’s best movies?
Heath Ledger captivated audiences with his magnetic presence and transformative performances. From swoon-worthy romantic leads to haunting portrayals of complex characters, his filmography is a treasure trove of cinematic gems.
Here’s a curated list of his most iconic films and where you can stream them in Australia:
The Dark Knight (2008)
Ledger’s portrayal of the Joker redefined the character, earning him a posthumous Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. His chilling performance remains a benchmark in film history. His family accepted the award on his behalf in a deeply moving tribute.
Where to watch: Stan, BINGE, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
Brokeback Mountain (2005)
In this poignant tale of forbidden love, Heath delivers a nuanced performance opposite Jake Gyllenhaal. The role earned him critical acclaim and an Oscar nomination.
Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video
A Knight’s Tale (2001)
This medieval adventure showcases Ledger’s charm and versatility, blending action with a modern soundtrack.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, BINGE, 7plus (Free with ads)
10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
Heath Ledger’s breakout role in this modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew” remains a teen classic.
As previously mentioned, there are rumours that Gil Junger, the director of the teen flick, is planning to make a follow-up. In an interview, he revealed he is writing the script (the first of a trilogy which he plans to title 10 Things I Hate About Dating, 10 Things I Hate About Marriage and 10 Things I Hate About Kids.
The films haven’t been greenlit yet, but Gil said he would make a nod to Heath in the new film: “I think that’s a beautiful idea…He deserves to be loved.”
Where to Watch: Disney+, 7plus (free with ads)
Two Hands (1999)
This Australian crime comedy stars Heath Ledger opposite Rose Byrne (herself up for an Oscar in 2025). It’s set in Sydney and depicts 19-year-old Jimmy (played by Heath) who finds himself in debt to a local gangster.
Where to Watch: ABC iView
The Patriot (2000)
Set during the American Revolution, Ledger plays the courageous son of Mel Gibson’s character in this historical drama.
Where to Watch: Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video
Candy (2006)
This Australian film delves into the tumultuous relationship between two lovers battling addiction, with Ledger delivering a raw and heartfelt performance.
Where to Watch: Stan
Honourable Mentions:
- The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (2009) – His final film, completed with help from actors like Johnny Depp and Jude Law after his death.
- Lords of Dogtown (2005) – As a free-spirited mentor in this skateboarding drama.
- Monster’s Ball (2001) – A brief but memorable role in a powerful drama.
