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 was as strong as ever. Director Terry Gilliam recently told a beautiful anecdote about how Ledger would pack his baby into his backpack and come to his house to discuss a film 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?”
Even in the middle of their anguish, a touching act of love and charity would secure Matilda’s future. Jude Law, Johnny Depp, and Colin Farrell, Ledger’s co-stars from the film “The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus,” stepped in to aid.
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 difficulties, Matilda has developed into an exceptional young woman. She is now 17 years old and looks very similar to her father. Her grandfather, Kim, claims she acquired much of her father’s traits and vitality. Matilda’s mother, Michelle, has done an outstanding job of parenting her on her own while keeping Ledger’s memory alive for her.
Despite Matilda’s low-profile upbringing, her family praises Michelle for providing a supportive atmosphere for her to grow up in. Matilda’s aunt, Kate Ledger, says that everything Matilda does makes her think of her late father. She keeps his memory alive by telling anecdotes about 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.
