When we think of the late actor Heath Ledger, we often remember him for his iconic role as The Joker in “The Dark Knight.” But behind the scenes, Ledger’s love for his daughter Matilda Rose Ledger was truly remarkable.
Ledger and actress Michelle Williams welcomed their daughter in 2005. Unfortunately, their relationship ended in 2007, but Ledger’s love for his daughter remained as strong as ever. Director Terry Gilliam once shared a heartwarming story about how Ledger would take his daughter in his backpack and travel to his house to discuss a movie they were working on.
Tragically, in 2008, Ledger passed away unexpectedly at his New York apartment when Matilda was only two years old. The loss was devastating for the little girl, who couldn’t understand why her father was suddenly gone. She would constantly ask her mother, Michelle, “Where’s my daddy?”
But even in the midst of their grief, a beautiful act of kindness and generosity would ensure Matilda’s future. Ledger’s co-stars, Jude Law, Johnny Depp, and Colin Farrell, who were working with him on the film “The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus,” stepped in to help.
When Ledger passed away during the filming, director Terry Gilliam was unsure about the fate of the movie. However, with Matilda’s support, he decided to continue the film by having Law, Depp, and Farrell take turns playing Ledger’s character. All three actors chose to donate their salaries to Matilda, showing their love and support for their fallen friend.
The story took an unexpected turn when it was revealed that Ledger had not included his daughter in his will. According to the will written before Matilda’s birth, Ledger’s estate was to be inherited by his parents and sisters. However, Ledger’s father, Kim Ledger, made a selfless decision. He announced that the entire family would gift everything to Matilda, ensuring that she would be taken care of.
Despite the challenges, Matilda has grown into a remarkable young woman. Now 17 years old, she bears a striking resemblance to her father. Her grandfather, Kim, says she has inherited many of her father’s mannerisms and energy. Matilda’s mother, Michelle, has done an incredible job of raising her on her own and keeping Ledger’s memory alive for her daughter.
Although Matilda leads a low-profile life, her family commends Michelle for creating a nurturing environment for her to grow up in. Matilda’s aunt, Kate Ledger, shares that everything Matilda does reminds her of her late father. She keeps his memory alive by sharing stories of him and their time together.
Matilda’s journey is heartwarming and inspiring. Despite losing her father at such a young age, she continues to carry his spirit with her. Ledger may be gone, but his love for his daughter lives on through the kindness and support of those around him.