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Dig A Hole: “Brokeback Mountain” star Heath Ledger

January 22nd, 2008 by Scott Marks

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I just heard on the radio that Heath Ledger, Oscar nominated star of Brokeback Mountain, was found dead in his Manhattan home.

Ledger first came to American moviegoers attention with his charming performance as the hardass object of Julia Stiles’ affection in 10 Things I Hate About You. He also displayed his hand at irreverent comedy when cast opposite Matt Damon in Terry Gilliam’s The Brothers Grimm.

His performance in Brokeback Mountain caused a New York Times critic to dub him the greatest actor since Marlon Brando.

In September of 2007 he called off his engagement to Brokeback co-star Michelle Williams. Heath Ledger was 29-years-old.

I’ll have more as the situation develops.

UPDATE

1. Ledger’s body was not found in Mary Kate Olsen’s apartment as originally believed.

2. TMZ.com reports that Ledger had a substance abuse problem, but a Ledger confidante reports he had been clean for a year. TMZ also reports that Ledger was ill with pneumonia at the time of his death.

3. Ledger had an appointment with his masseuse. His housekeeper went to inform the actor and found him face down and naked on his bedroom floor at 3:26 p.m.

4. Although too early to determine whether is was suicide or an accident, police confirm that sleeping pills were found in Ledger’s bed and scattered about his body.

5. Warner Bros, the studio producing Ledger’s upcoming release The Dark Knight, issued the following statement: “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.”

6. TMZ was in contact with Ledger’s family who had this to say: “The cops told the family Heath’s death was accidental and there is no evidence to support the buzz that he may have committed suicide.
They are particularly distraught over media reports that he may have taken his own life. The family says he was not that kind of person. ”

7. According to Google Trends, as of 5:48 p. m. the number one searched name on the internet was Heath Ledger. Number two was Keith Ledger.

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Filed Under News, Obituaries