Heath Ledger

Heathcliff Andrew Ledger.

Early years and escape from Australia Born in Perth, Australia. Dropped out of school at 17 to pursue an acting career. Moved to Sydney with 69 cents in his pocket. Attitude to fame and Hollywood Hated the status of a "teenage sex symbol" after his initial successes. Deliberately turned down major Hollywood contracts for independent films. Constantly struggled with increased attention from the press and paparazzi. Family and main love While filming "Brokeback Mountain" in 2004, he fell in love with actress Michelle Williams. In 2005, the couple had a daughter, Matilda. He called the birth of his daughter the best event in his life. The couple broke up in 2007, which greatly undermined the actor. Hobbies outside of film Professionally played chess and won the Western Australian junior championship. He was interested in photography and directing music videos. He founded his own music label, The Masses. Recent years and He suffered from chronic insomnia due to a hyperactive mind. He experienced severe exhaustion while preparing for the role of the Joker, sleeping only two to three hours a night. He became seriously ill with pneumonia on his final filming in late 2007. The actor passed away on January 22, 2008, at the age of 28 due to an accidental overdose of prescription medication.